Naga City HUC conversion plebiscite outcome remains wide open: Comelec

MANILA — The Commission on Elections warned Thursday that the outcome of Naga City's plebiscite on converting to highly urbanized city status remains unpredictable, with neither side able to claim a clear advantage heading into the vote.

Comelec Chair George Erwin Garcia said the referendum "will not be a walk in the park," indicating that either a yes or no vote could conceivably win depending on voter turnout and campaign effectiveness. The agency has been tasked with overseeing the plebiscite, which seeks to determine whether residents support the city's elevation from its current classification.

The conversion to highly urbanized city status would grant Naga City greater fiscal and administrative autonomy, allowing it to generate additional revenues and implement policies with less provincial oversight. Proponents argue the upgrade would accelerate development and improve city services, while opponents have raised concerns about the costs and feasibility of sustaining HUC-level operations.

Garcia's comments underscore the closely contested nature of the plebiscite campaign. The Comelec chief did not specify a date for the referendum, though preparations are reported to be underway. Officials expect the vote to draw significant public interest given its potential implications for the city's future governance structure and economic trajectory.