Law Summary
Oath of Office
- The members' oath is administered by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
- This must occur at least fifteen days before the scheduled presidential and vice-presidential elections.
- The Chief Justice takes his oath before the Speaker of the Batasang Pambansa.
Procedures and Quorum
- Five members constitute a quorum.
- The Tribunal may establish its own rules and regulations for hearings and procedures.
- Cases are heard and decided en banc.
- A concurring vote of at least five members is needed for a final decision.
Decision Timeline and Tie-Breaking
- The Tribunal must decide election contests within twelve months after filing.
- In case of a tie, the Batasang Pambansa decides the winner by majority vote.
- Judgments are promulgated on fixed dates with prior notice to parties.
- Motions are limited to reconsideration based on existing evidence, with no new motions allowed after one reconsideration.
- Decisions must be furnished to the Batasang Pambansa, the Commission on Elections, and involved parties.
Assumption of Office Upon Winning Contest
- If a contestant is declared the winner, they must take oath and assume office immediately after final judgment.
Tribunal Staffing
- A Clerk of the Tribunal is appointed to assist in its functions.
- Additional subordinate officers and employees may be designated from the judiciary or other government offices.
Grounds and Filing for Election Contests
- Only registered candidates who ranked second and third may file a contest.
- Petitions must be filed within thirty days after proclamation of the results.
Powers of the Tribunal
- The Tribunal exercises powers akin to courts, including issuing subpoenas and compelling witness attendance.
- It can order the production of documents and other evidence.
Enforcement and Security Measures
- The Tribunal can recommend prosecution for election irregularities including forgery, tampering, failure to sign, and delays.
- It is authorized to secure election paraphernalia in guarded locations.
- Contestants may post their own guards upon request.
- The Tribunal can punish contempt as provided in the Revised Rules of Court.
- Official communications are transmitted free of charge.
Appropriations and Expenses
- Five million pesos appropriated for establishment, operational costs, and securing election materials.
- Contests exceeding appropriations require the contestant to post a bond to cover extra expenses.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect upon approval.