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Identify the central doctrine governing who may file an election protest and where it must be filed under Philippine law. Scenario: In the city of San Lorenzo, Candidate A loses the mayoral election to Candidate B. A registered voters’ association, San Lorenzo Citizens for Clean Elections (SLCLE), files an election protest alleging irregularities in canvassing across nine precincts and that the canvassed totals do not reflect the votes cast. The protest is filed with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) within the period fixed by law and is supported by sworn statements from five voters and copies of election returns. The respondent moves to dismiss on grounds that a non-candidate association lacks standing to file an election protest, and that COMELEC has no jurisdiction over local elections. The protest is timely and properly filed. Decide whether the protest may proceed, and state the governing rules you apply.