The Commission on Elections (Comelec) set the special election for Dasmariñas City’s lone congressional district on 29 August and confirmed that former Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga remains eligible to seek a return to the House of Representatives.

The special election will fill the vacancy created after Barzaga was expelled by the House of Representatives last month for disorderly behavior and conduct unbecoming of a lawmaker, including his alleged repeated failure to perform his legislative duties.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said candidates may file their certificates of candidacy from 15 to 17 July.

Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia said Barzaga’s expulsion does not disqualify him from running again.

He explained that removal from office does not carry perpetual disqualification from public office, noting that only specific criminal convictions, particularly those involving moral turpitude, may permanently bar a candidate from seeking elective office.

Political observers expect Barzaga to face former Cavite Representative Gilbert Remulla, brother of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

Gilbert Remulla previously represented Cavite’s former 2nd District, which included Dasmariñas, before losing to the late Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. in the 2007 elections.

A Barzaga-Remulla contest would revive one of Cavite’s longest-running political rivalries and place control of one of the province’s most influential congressional seats at stake.

The election period will run from 30 July to 13 September, while the campaign period has been set from 30 July to 27 August.

The Comelec said the campaign ban will take effect on 28 August and on election day.

The poll body also reminded candidates and supporters that carrying firearms and deadly weapons, as well as the unauthorized use of security personnel and bodyguards, will be prohibited.

A liquor ban and restrictions on giving free transportation, food, drinks and other items of value will likewise be enforced during the prescribed periods.