MANILA, Philippines — Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairperson George Garcia on Thursday said he and other election officials are ready to face the complaint filed against them by a multi-sectoral group before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) over alleged irregularities in the May 12 midterm elections.

“I, together with the members of the Commission En Banc, as government employees, are ready to face and answer questions, and any investigation or analysis regarding the past elections,” Garcia said in a statement.

The complaint, lodged before the NBI Anti-Fraud Division, was filed by a group composed of bishops, retired generals, and civil society leaders. They accused the poll body of committing illegal acts in relation to the conduct of the recent national polls and sought a formal investigation.

Garcia assured the public of Comelec’s cooperation and expressed confidence in the NBI’s impartiality.

“We also have full confidence in the NBI to fulfill its duty for an objective and fair investigation as expected by every Filipino,” he said.

The Comelec chief also downplayed the allegations, saying they are not new and have been repeatedly addressed.

“All the allegations mentioned have been around for a long time, and we have repeatedly answered and explained, and have also strongly refuted the false accusations,” Garcia said.

He emphasized that the integrity of the May 12 elections had been affirmed by local and international election observers, including the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), European Union, Asian Network for Free Elections, and various election management bodies, churches, schools, and organizations in the country.

“Although we embrace and respect the expression of different opinions as proof of a healthy democracy in our country, our evidence and stance are strong to ensure that only correct information and truth will prevail in the end. As always, the people only deserve the truth,” he added.

The complaint against Comelec includes multiple counts of system interference under Republic Act No. 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The NBI has primary jurisdiction over such cases. (With reports from PNA)