Controversial Former COMELEC Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano Dies
VIRGILIO GARCILLANO – The former Commission on Elections (COMELEC) commissioner passed away on March 29, 2025, at his home in Baungon, Bukidnon. He was 86 years old. His death was confirmed by COMELEC Chairman George Garcia.
Garcillano, also known as “Garci,” was a prominent figure in Philippine politics, especially during the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. He served as a COMELEC commissioner and gained notoriety for his involvement in the “Hello Garci” scandal.
The controversy began in 2005, when recordings of a phone conversation between Garcillano and President Arroyo were leaked. The call, which took place during the 2004 presidential elections, appeared to discuss vote counting, leading to accusations of electoral fraud. Arroyo admitted to making the calls but denied any wrongdoing, insisting she was merely monitoring the election results. The scandal sparked public outrage, with many questioning the fairness of the elections.
After the recordings surfaced, Garcillano left the country to avoid the controversy but later returned to the Philippines. In 2007, he ran for a congressional seat in Bukidnon but lost.
In his later years, Garcillano kept a low profile. He was married to Grace Garcillano and faced health issues, including prostate disease, which required medical treatment in 2007.
His passing marks the end of a controversial chapter in Philippine politics. While many associate him with the election scandal, his tenure as COMELEC commissioner also contributed to shaping the country’s electoral system.
Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is an independent body in the Philippines responsible for ensuring fair and transparent elections. It manages voter registration, oversees the electoral process, and enforces election laws by monitoring campaigns and addressing fraud. COMELEC also resolves disputes and works on modernizing voting through automation. Its independence plays a crucial role in protecting democracy and upholding the integrity of elections.