THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) yesterday said it is ready to hold a special election in the seventh district of Cavite after it was orphaned by the designation of Jesus Crispin Remulla as secretary of the Department of Justice.
In a statement, acting Comelec spokesman John Rex Laudiangco said the poll body will coordinate with the House of Representatives regarding the holding of the special polls.
“The certification issued by the HoR is the first step for the Commission to take into consideration the subject vacancy. The Commission en Banc, through the Executive Director and the Deputy Executive Director for Operations, shall be accordingly coordinating with the HoR,” said Laudiangco.
He said they will discuss with the HoR the necessary appropriations on budget that will be required or requested, the setting of the calendar of activities, particularly the special election period and special election day.
After which, Laudiangco said they will proceed with the different procurement activities for special ballots, accountable and non-accountable forms, and other supplies.
Laudiangco said the Comelec will hold training for the special electoral boards and special provincial board of canvassers.
Last Wednesday, the House of Representatives passed a resolution declaring a vacancy in the 7th District of Cavite.
Remulla, who won the post during the May 9 local elections, was appointed to the DOJ by President Marcos. He assumed his new post last July 1.
Currently, House Speaker Martin Romualdez is the district’s caretaker as designated by the chamber last Tuesday.
As to its possible effect in the ongoing preparations for the December 2022 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls, the poll official said it will be minimal.
“BSKE Preparations are already underway, and this will not significantly impact our timelines,” said Laudiangco.
