Fate’s Flip: Tied SK Elections in Two Barangays Resolved by Coin Toss
In an unusual turn of events, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) chairmanship elections in two barangays across the provinces of Aurora and Zambales were determined by a coin toss due to tied results.
In Barangay 7, Casiguran, Aurora, a best-of-three coin toss was the method chosen after both candidates, Alex John Agabao and Noriel Torre, secured 52 votes each.
Agabao, following the toss, was declared the winner and was immediately proclaimed the new SK chairman.
“To the Agabao family who did not leave me behind when I was getting discouraged and to those who have been with me in this race, especially to my new friends, thank you for trusting me. Like my father, I will serve equally and honestly to the youth,” Agabao said.
Torre responded to the outcome, stating, “It is just the toss coin that made the opponent win. It’s not for me this time but there is always a next time.”
A similar situation arose in Barangay San Guillermo, San Marcelino, Zambales.
Both SK candidates, Jenelyn Dalit and Jemimah Faith Gongora, found themselves in a deadlock with 62 votes each.
To resolve the tie, a single coin toss was agreed upon, overseen by the municipal board of canvassers.
Dalit, who was defending her position, chose heads, while Gongora opted for tails.
Following the flip, Dalit was announced the winner.
“Thank you very much to all those who supported, believed and again for giving the trust in me as SK chairperson of Barangay San Guillermo. Prayer is so powerful. To God be the glory,” she expressed.
Gongora, reflecting on the results, shared, “Indeed, it was a good fight. I am so grateful to everyone who has supported me and trusted me from the beginning to the end. I’m not the lucky one to win, but I’m still here to support and serve the youth.”
The Omnibus Election Code clarifies that in the event of a tie, the result can be determined either by drawing lots or a coin toss.