The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has called on registered voters in Dasmariñas City, Cavite, to participate in the upcoming special election scheduled for August 29.
The local polls seek to fill the vacant seat for the 4th District of Cavite in the House of Representatives following the expulsion of its former representative, Kiko Barzaga.
During a press briefing on Thursday, COMELEC Chairperson George Erwin Garcia underscored the importance of active civic engagement, reminding local voters of the power they hold in determining their political representation.
“Ito po yung pagkakataon natin upang mai-reiterate natin na ang kapangyarihan ay nasa ating mga kamay, na ibig sabihin, hawak mo ang vote, diba? Kayo lang ang pwedeng magsabi kung sino ang magiging Kongresista ng ika-apat na Distrito ng Cavite. We have to be proud that we are given this opportunity,” Garcia said.
The poll chief also highlighted the fundamental equality of the ballot, stressing that every single vote carries equal weight regardless of a citizen’s background or socio-economic class.
“There will be an election. Let us vote. Sapagkat sisiguraduhin po ng inyong COMELEC, anuman po ang katayuan niyo sa buhay – mayaman, mahirap, nakatatanda, bata, may pinag-aralan o wala, [may] isang balota, isaang boto niyo. Ang boses mo mahalaga. May bigat ang bawat boto po natin,” he added.
According to the official electoral timeline, the filing period for certificates of candidacy is scheduled for July 15–17, while the campaign window will officially begin on July 30. The commission plans to conclude the process swiftly, targeting August 30 for the proclamation of the winning candidate.
To guarantee a seamless voting process, early voting hours will remain accessible for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Garcia stated that the poll body is strictly focused on providing a secure environment for the city’s 448,883 registered voters.
“Naka-focus po ang buong Komisyon dito po sa Dasmariñas. We would like to establish peace and order, and at the same time, to ensure that all voters will be able to vote,” Garcia stated.
“No voter shall be disenfranchised, and gusto natin, freely, makaboto po yung mga kababayan natin dito sa 4th District ng Cavite.”
The government has allocated an estimated budget of ₱200 million to fund the administration and logistical operations of the special legislative election.