Comelec: No calls yet for special polls on Batangas congressional seat

By Ferdinand Patinio

January 16, 2024, 2:48 pm

<p>Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia. <em>(Photo courtesy of Comelec)</em></p>

Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia. (Photo courtesy of Comelec)

MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said it is awaiting the decision of the House of Representatives on whether or not to hold a special election for the sixth legislative district of Batangas province.

"It depends on the House of Representatives if they will call for one. There is none so far, likely because Congress has not yet resumed session," Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia said in an interview on Tuesday.

Based on its rules, the lower chamber must first issue a certificate of permanent vacancy and a resolution before a special election can be held by the poll body.

Last week, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. appointed then Representative Ralph Recto as the new secretary of the Department of Finance.

Recto replaced Benjamin Diokno, who was named a member of the Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Recto also vacated his post as one of the House's deputy speakers. (PNA)

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