Antipolo city: Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno of Antipolo City welcomed the Commission on Elections' (Comelec) decision to conduct a special election to fill the seat left vacant by the late Antipolo Rep. Romeo Acop. Puno emphasized that holding this election is a legal obligation of the poll body.

According to Philippines News Agency, Puno, who is the National Unity Party (NUP) chairman, mentioned in a press conference that the special election is scheduled for March 14, with the filing of Certificates of Candidacy set for February 5 and 6. He also clarified that while Comelec has informed Congress about the planned election, the request for additional funding has been directed to Malaca±ang rather than the House of Representatives.

Puno further explained that the request for additional funds is being made to the Office of the President and not Congress. He noted that Congress has been informed of Comelec's plans but does not have a say in the matter according to current jurisprudence. Puno reiterated that Comelec is obliged to conduct the election as part of its mandate.

In addition to the election update, Puno disclosed that his party is planning a major organizational change in Cavite. This includes dissolving the Dasmari±as chapter of the National Unity Party following the departure of its chapter head, suspended Rep. Francisco 'Kiko' Barzaga. The dissolution is seen as a step towards forming a new local organization.

Puno stated that since the congressman has left the party, the chapter is leaderless. As there have been no reports or recommendations for a replacement, the decision was made to dissolve the NUP chapter in Dasmari±as. He indicated plans to establish a new chapter with different members, noting that by Monday, all current NUP members in Dasmari±as would be removed from the party if the reorganization proceeds.