Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Military trucks escorted by armored combat vehicles brought ballot boxes containing certificates of canvass and election returns for the presidential and vice presidential race to the House of Representatives (HoR) early Tuesday (May 24).
Government troops secured the vicinity of the HoR and only legislative security personnel were allowed to carry the ballot boxes into the building. Only Senate President Franklin Drilon and House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. are authorized to open the ballot boxes.
The HoR and the Senate will convene as the National Board of Canvassers Tuesday afternoon to start laying down the rules for canvassing the votes. The lawmakers also will name members of the board of canvassers.
Under the 1987 Constitution, the country’s new president and vice president are to be proclaimed by a joint session of Congress.
Outgoing Majority Floor Leader Rep. Neptali Gonzales said they are unsure if the canvassing can begin on Wednesday because it may take days before they finalize the canvassing rules.
CNN Philippines’ correspondent Pia Bonalos contributed to this report.
