The main entrance of the Tarlac Provincial Capitol has been closed for “repairs” ahead of the scheduled filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) of candidates challenging the Yap family.
According to a post by the Facebook page I Love Tarlac City, the closure intends to prevent rival candidates from showcasing the strong support they receive from Tarlaquenos who are longing for change in the province. This post has so far gotten 353 reactions, 330 comments and 150 shares.
With the front façade closed, supporters will have limited space to gather and express their backing for their candidates, as the outside the Commission on Elections (Comelec) provincial office lacks sufficient room.
The caption of the I love Tarlac City Facebook page said, “Alam na magpa file ng COC ang Mayor ng Tarlac City pero haharangan…?
… Kahusay naman nakapag-file ng COC ng lahat sa City Hall… ”
The gubernatorial candidate will reportedly challenge former Tarlac Gov. Victor Yap, brother of outgoing Gov. Susan Yap.
The other candidate will vie for the 2nd District congressional post against incumbent Rep. Christian Yap, son of the outgoing governor.
The I love Tarlac City Facebook page urged all candidates, “Lumaban kayo ng parehas.”
Likewise, netizens thumbs-downed the Capitol’s move, saying it should play fair and avoid using its power to harass its political opponents.
“Lumaban po kayo patas para maging maayos po election .ipakita po nyo sa mga sinasakupan nyo na isa kayong mga nag-aral at hindi mangmang. Nasa matataas po kayong posisyon,” a netizen commented on I love Tarlac City’s post.
