Comelec tells TV stations: Stop quick counts

(Updated 12:57 p.m.) The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday warned television stations to cease airing quick counts of the national and local elections or face contempt charges. In a press briefing, Comelec chair Benjamin Abalos said the poll body's Education and Information Department already made representation with the broadcast networks. "They (Networks) are violating the law. They are not supposed to consolidate results unless they reveal the source, precinct where it came from," Abalos said. He added that, "[They have] to stop it because they are not accredited to do the quick count. They are confusing the people. They are not supposed to report the unofficial tally. It might show trending." However, Abalos denied that the decision was made because of the poor performance of Team Unity candidates in media quick counts. Survey firm Pulse Asia reported that its exit poll showed a six-four-two win in favor of Genuine Opposition senatorial candidates. Earlier in the day, Comelec convened as the National Board of Canvassers but suspended the counting before lunchtime pending the arrival of ballot boxes from other countries. Certificates from Laos, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Cambodia and Seoul in South Korea have been tabulated at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. Independent senatorial candidate Francis Pangilinan was leading the pack with 929 votes. - GMANews.TV