Duterte Youth’s Threat to Expose Comelec Hits Backlash

A threat by Duterte Youth Party-list Chairman Ronald Cardema to expose alleged corruption within the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has drawn strong backlash, particularly from Kabataan Party-list Representative Raoul Manuel, who called the move “self-serving.”

Cardema issued the warning on Tuesday, May 21, following the Comelec en banc’s decision to suspend Duterte Youth’s proclamation as a winning party-list in the 2025 elections. He said he would reveal supposed misconduct and corrupt practices in the poll body if Duterte Youth is not allowed to assume its seat in Congress.

However, Rep. Manuel slammed Cardema’s statement, questioning the timing and motive behind the threat. “If they really knew about corruption in Comelec, why didn’t they expose it earlier?” Manuel posted on X (formerly Twitter). “They’re self-serving. They only speak out when it benefits them.”

The lawmaker also called out the Duterte Youth party for allegedly tolerating corruption for the sake of political gain. “They’re willing to turn a blind eye to corruption, which robs the youth of their future, just to secure a seat in Congress,” Manuel said in Filipino.

He accused the Duterte Youth of misleading even their supporters, calling their advocacy “fake.” According to Manuel, the youth deserve genuine public servants whose loyalty lies with the people, not politicians.

“We exposed the scandals behind Sara Duterte’s confidential funds, Marcos’ Maharlika Investment scam, and other pork barrel schemes without expecting anything in return,” Manuel said. “That is true patriotism. That is the example we should set for the youth.”

The Comelec has yet to issue an official response to Cardema’s allegations and threats. As of now, the proclamation of the Duterte Youth remains suspended pending further review.

Observers say Cardema’s threats may undermine his credibility and the legitimacy of Duterte Youth’s claim, especially as calls mount for transparency and accountability from all political parties, regardless of affiliation.

With growing public scrutiny on election integrity and the role of party-list groups, analysts warn that using corruption exposés as leverage may do more harm than good to Cardema and his allies.