The political spotlight remains on former Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga following his expulsion from the House of Representatives, as COMELEC Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia clarified that the move does not automatically prevent him from seeking public office again. Garcia explained that Barzaga may still file his Certificate of Candidacy, stressing that expulsion from Congress is not equivalent to a lifetime ban from politics. “Yes, he can file his Certificate of Candidacy because his removal as a Congressman is not a perpetual disqualification to hold public office,” Garcia said. The COMELEC chief emphasized that any challenge to Barzaga’s possible candidacy may still be elevated to the Supreme Court, but existing laws and jurisprudence do not consider expulsion as a permanent disqualification. “Based on our laws, existing Supreme Court decisions, and legal provisions, this is not a ground for perpetual disqualification to hold public office. This expul...
With confidence, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to democratic participation, COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia delivered a powerful message to election stakeholders and the Filipino public: the 2028 National and Local Elections are moving forward, and nothing will stand in their way. Speaking at the Stakeholders Forum and Presentation of the Draft Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Automated Election System, Garcia underscored the Commission’s commitment to transparency, stressing that public trust begins with an open and accountable electoral process. “Ayaw natin na pinagdududahan ang ating proseso. Ayaw natin na may tanong ang ating mga kababayan. Gusto natin, as transparent as possible,” Garcia declared. For the election chief, transparency is not just a policy, it is a promise. He assured stakeholders that every major step in the preparations for the 2028 elections will be made known to the public, reinforcing COMELEC’s commitment to credibility and integrity. ...