Candidates who lost in the May 2025 midterm elections are now eligible for government appointments, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec). This decision comes after the expiration of a one-year ban on appointments for losing candidates.
Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia confirmed this update, stating that the appointment ban ended on May 13, 2026. He clarified that the ban was established to prevent any potential abuse of power in appointments.
Garcia referenced Section 6, Article 9(b) of the 1987 Constitution, which restricts appointments for one year following an election loss. This rule ensures equal opportunities for public service.
The announcement follows speculation regarding potential Cabinet appointments, including the rumored return of former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos to a government role. Abalos resigned last year to run for the Senate but did not win.
The candidates who lost in the 2025 national and local elections can now be appointed starting today.
George Erwin Garcia
When asked about the implications for Cabinet appointments, Garcia noted that the authority to appoint remains with the President, but the law imposes certain limitations.
Previously, Garcia emphasized that the one-year ban aimed to prevent perceptions of patronage or rewards for losing candidates, which could undermine public trust.
As of now, there have been no updates on potential changes to the Cabinet lineup, according to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro. Speculation continues regarding various secretaries potentially being replaced.