Cavite, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) announced that two candidates have already filed their Certificates of Candidacy (COC).
Among them were former Dasmariñas Vice Mayor Rex Mangubat and Marvin Dupal-ag.
This is in relation with the scheduled Special Election on August 29 for the 4th Legislative District of Cavite after the congressional seat became vacant following the removal of former Congressman Kiko Barzaga from office.
The filing of COCs for those seeking to represent the 4th District will run until Friday, July 17.
There are more than 400,000 registered voters in Dasmariñas, Cavite.
A total of 43 voting sites and 3,166 voting precincts will be used for the special election.
It can be recalled that Barzaga was removed as a member of the House of Representatives on June 2, 2026, following the recommendation of the Committee on Ethics and Privileges.
He was found liable for disorderly behavior, conduct unbecoming of a member, and several other violations of the House Code of Conduct.
A majority of lawmakers voted in favor of removing Barzaga from office.
The COMELEC also reminded the public that from July 17 to July 19, all forms of premature campaigning and other election offenses are prohibited.
The commission also warned that it will strictly monitor and crack down on vote-buying.
On Election Day, August 29, senior citizens, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) will be given priority to vote from 5:00 am to 7:00 am, while the rest of the electorate may cast their votes from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm.
COMELEC is aiming to proclaim the winning candidate immediately after the election.
Meanwhile, among the prominent personalities expected to file their candidacies for the congressional seat are Dasmariñas City Mayor Jenny Barzaga and former Dasmariñas City Councilor Jess Frani.
It may also be recalled that COMELEC Chairperson George Erwin Garcia previously stated that former Congressman Kiko Barzaga remains eligible to file his candidacy.
According to Garcia, Barzaga’s removal from the House of Representatives does not constitute a perpetual disqualification from holding public office.
On the other hand, Barzaga said he would rather go on vacation than run for office again if he believes the election would only be manipulated.