Mayor Jennifer Barzaga of Dasmariñas, Cavite, will run in a special election to fill the congressional seat vacated by her son Francisco 'Kiko' Barzaga's expulsion from the House of Representatives.The Commission on Elections confirmed Barzaga filed her certificate of candidacy on the last day allowed, making her the fifth aspirant for the seat.Former Vice Mayor Rex Mangubat, Marvin Dupal-Ag, Jacinto Frani Jr., and Leysander Ordenes also filed candidacy documents.

Kiko Barzaga was expelled for disorderly behavior and violating House conduct rules, but the Comelec chairman noted his expulsion does not permanently bar him from public office.The special election is scheduled for August 29, with candidates vying to represent Dasmariñas in Congress.

The case highlights the political dynamics of family ties in Philippine politics, where a mother steps in to fill a legislative vacancy left by her son's removal.

The election underscores the complexities of public accountability and the intersection of personal and political life in the country's governance structure.