Palace declares 14 March holiday for Antipolo poll

Malacañang has declared a special non-working day in the Second Legislative District of Antipolo City for the special election on 14 March 2026.

By virtue of Proclamation No. 1173 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a special non-working holiday was declared in areas comprising the district to facilitate the conduct of the election.

“There is a need to declare Saturday, 14 March 2026, as a special (non-working) holiday to enable the people of the areas comprising the Second Legislative District of the City of Antipolo to properly exercise their right to vote,” the proclamation read.

The special election will be held following the death of Representative Romeo Acop on 20 December.

Under Republic Act No. 6645, as amended by Republic Act No. 7166, the Commission on Elections is mandated to call and conduct a special election if a permanent vacancy occurs in the House of Representatives at least one year before the expiration of the term.

The election must be held not earlier than 60 days and not later than 90 days after the vacancy occurs.

The proclamation was signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on 20 February 2026 by authority of the President.