The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a warning to candidates in the special elections of Dasmariñas, Cavite, prohibiting premature campaigning before the official campaign period starts on July 30, 2026.Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia emphasized that any campaign activities prior to this date could lead to disqualification.The special polls, scheduled for August 29, 2026, follow the expulsion of former lawmaker Kiko Barzaga from the House of Representatives.Garcia clarified that the Peñera vs.Comelec doctrine, which applies to automated elections, does not govern manual elections like this one.Prohibited actions during the campaign period include distributing illegal materials, making donations, and using armored vehicles.Additionally, public funds for social welfare and housing projects are restricted from July 30 to August 28, 2026.A gun ban will also be enforced during the election period.

Garcia noted that incumbent officials implementing projects are not considered premature campaigning, distinguishing between administrative duties and campaign activities.The winning candidate may be proclaimed as early as August 30, with early voting hours for specific groups starting at 5 a.m.