COMELEC Chair George Erwin M. Garcia: Barzaga Can Still Run; Expulsion Not a Lifetime Ban From Public Office

Following the removal of former Congressman Kiko Barzaga as representative of the lone district of Dasmariñas, Cavite, George Erwin Mojica Garcia clarified that his expulsion from the House of Representatives does not automatically prevent him from seeking public office again.

Garcia explained that under existing laws and jurisprudence, expulsion from Congress is administrative in nature and does not constitute a perpetual disqualification to hold public office.

“Yes, pwede siyang mag-file ng Certificate of Candidacy, sapagkat ang kanyang pagkakatanggal sa pagiging Kongresista ay hindi po perpetual disqualification to hold public office,” Garcia said.

The COMELEC chief noted that any challenge to Barzaga’s possible candidacy may still be raised before the proper courts, including the Supreme Court, once the election guidelines are issued.

“Kung sakali po na ‘yung aking naging statement na makakatakbo siya ay merong gustong mag-question later, especially kapag nilabas na namin ‘yung guidelines, ‘yan naman po ay pwedeng itaas sa Korte Suprema,” Garcia added.

Garcia also announced that the COMELEC is preparing for a possible special election in Dasmariñas, Cavite following the vacancy in the House of Representatives. The poll body is initially estimating around P200 million in expenses for the conduct of the election, considering the district’s 437,730 registered voters.

Under the Constitution, a special election must be held not earlier than 60 days and not later than 90 days after the vacancy occurs. Garcia said the COMELEC En Banc is considering possible dates, including August 22 or August 29, 2026.

“Tayo po ay binigyan ng ating Saligang Batas na magsagawa ng special election ng hindi po maaga ng animnapung (60) araw at hindi po lalagpas ng siyamnapung (90) araw matapos ang pagkakaroon ng bakante,” Garcia said.

With transparency and adherence to the law as the COMELEC’s priority, Garcia emphasized that the commission will ensure that the electoral process remains guided by constitutional rules and established legal principles.