MANILA, Philippines – A Commission on Elections (Comelec) official said that special elections will be held if elected Las Piñas Rep. Mark Villar accepts presumptive president Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte’s offer to be a member of his Cabinet.
Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon said that if Villar accepts Duterte’s Department of Works and Highways (DPWH) offer, the House of Representatives leader will declare a vacancy of his seat as Las Piñas representative and that will prompt a conduct of special elections.
“What I know is that the house leadership should declare a vacancy,” Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said.
Republic Act 7166 mandates that the special elections to fill a vacancy at the lower house should be not earlier than 60 days nor longer than 90 days after the post has been vacated.
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On Tuesday, a report from the STAR noted that Villar confirmed accepting Duterte’s offer after consulting with his family and constituents. — Rosette Adel