LEGAZPI CITY: Supporters of Albay Gov. Noel Rosal are set to conduct a massive rally amid the disqualification case filed against the governor before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) First Division on Monday.

The protest march is scheduled on Friday. A mass for justice was also held on Tuesday at the St. Gregory the Great, Albay Cathedral.

In an interview on Monday, Rosal asked the Albayanos to be calm amid the disqualification case.

“I will continue to function as your governor until the court orders with finality to vacate the position. Please, stay calm. Thank you all for your support,” he said.

Rosal said that the resolution of the First Division is not final and executory.

He said that his office will file a motion for reconsideration within five days.

“We have five days from receipt or up to 24 September, to file a motion for recommendation to the Commission en banc. The decision, final order or ruling of the Comelec en banc may be brought to the Supreme Court on petition for certiorari under Rule 65 in relation to Rule 64 of the rules of court but becomes executory after five days if no restraining order is issued by SC,” Rosal said.

The Comelec First Division disqualified Rosal from the 2022 provincial race for violating the 45-day ban for the release of public funds by government agencies for social welfare projects following the cash assistance payout to senior citizens in March and tricycle drivers in April.

The disqualification case was filed by Joseph San Juan Armogila, who ran for councilor but lost in the May 9, 2022, local polls.