Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a show cause order to Lawrence Lubiano, president of Centerways Construction and Development Inc., to personally explain his donations to Senator Francis Escudero during the campaign period for the May 2022 polls.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia stated that Lubiano is also invited to appear before the poll body to provide more details regarding the matter. "The show cause order was issued earlier. At the same time, he was invited to appear in a meeting or hearing by the Comelec," Garcia said during an interview at the Comelec main office.

Garcia emphasized the importance of both a written explanation and a formal meeting with Lubiano. "Besides the written explanation, it would be good to also call him for a formal meeting... There are things that need to be confirmed... We want to know the extent of his contribution and donation," he stated.

He clarified that the invitation is not a preliminary investigation but a step towards collating evidence. "This is not yet part of the preliminary investigation but part of our case buildup and evidence gathering. As we said, it's better if it is not just a position paper," Garcia explained.

The poll body is also considering inviting Senator Escudero to provide his side of the story once Lubiano's explanation is received. "After the contractor, we will write to the candidate, who admitted to receiving help from him," Garcia noted.

Senator Escudero has confirmed that Lubiano, identified as a top flood control contractor in Sorsogon province, contributed PHP30 million to his senatorial campaign.