Manila: Gabriela party-list has called on the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to officially recognize them as one of the winners in the May 12 elections, in light of the potential disqualification of the Duterte Youth party-list.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gabriela submitted a one-page letter to Comelec Chairperson George Garcia, appealing for the acknowledgment of their representation, which they argue is crucial for marginalized groups, particularly impoverished women in the nation. The party-list emphasized their role as a consistent advocate for women's and people's rights in Congress.

In the May 12 party-list elections, Gabriela secured the 55th position with 256,811 votes. However, only the top 54 party-list groups received enough votes to gain seats in the House of Representatives. Among these groups, 53 have already been proclaimed by the National Board of Canvassers.

Duterte Youth, which secured the second position with 2,338,564 votes, has not been proclaimed due to an ongoing case with the Comelec. The Comelec Second Division voided Duterte Youth's registration, citing non-compliance with publication and public hearing requirements. The group has contested the decision, leading to an escalation of the case to the en banc.

Chairperson Garcia has refrained from commenting on the Duterte Youth's case, citing the ongoing motion for reconsideration as a reason for withholding discussions.