Following Puerto Princesa City Council’s resolution endorsing House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez as the caretaker of the 3rd District of Palawan due to the demise of Congressman Edward Solon Hagedorn, the Aborlan Municipality has sought the appointment of Palawan 2nd District Congressman Jose Chaves Alvarez as the temporary representative.
Aborlan Vice Mayor Marvin Madeja explained that the municipal officials reached a consensus to choose Alvarez as the caretaker due to his close representation of Palawan’s district in the House of Representatives.
Madeja also pointed out that this request may be considered by Speaker Romualdez, especially given the apparent impossibility of holding a Special Election this year.
Palawan’s 3rd District includes major population centers such as the town of Aborlan and the city of Puerto Princesa. Puerto Princesa is not only the capital of Palawan but also serves as a hub for commerce, government, and tourism in the province.
When a congressman dies, it triggers an immediate declaration of the vacant seat by the House of Representatives. The Speaker of the House or the House Secretary-General typically makes this declaration.
There are two options to fill the vacant seat:
a) A Special Election: The Constitution of the Philippines mandates that in the event of a congressional vacancy at least one year before the next regular election, a special election should be held to fill the position.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is responsible for organizing and conducting this special election. It allows constituents to choose a new representative through a democratic process.
b) Caretaker Appointment: In cases where the vacancy occurs within one year of the next regular election, a special election may not be feasible due to time constraints. In such situations, the House of Representatives has the authority to appoint a caretaker representative who serves until the next regular election.
The caretaker is often selected based on recommendations from local officials or political leaders in the affected district.
After this comes the House decision, as the House of Representatives will deliberate and make a decision on whether to proceed with a special election or to appoint a caretaker. This decision is typically based on legal considerations, the timing of the vacancy, and the feasibility of conducting a special election within the required timeframe.
When the House declares their decision, the next step is filling the vacant seat. If a special election is called, candidates from various political parties can participate in the electoral process to fill the vacant seat. The candidate who receives the most votes is declared the winner and assumes the role of congressman for the remainder of the term.
If a caretaker is appointed, their role is temporary and primarily focused on representing the constituents’ interests until the next regular election. They are expected to perform the legislative functions of the position and address the concerns of the district during their tenure.
Specific procedures and timelines may vary depending on the circumstances and legal interpretations. The primary goal is to ensure that the affected district continues to have representation in the House of Representatives in accordance with the Philippine Constitution.
Madeja also pointed out that this request may be considered by Speaker Romualdez, especially given the apparent impossibility of holding a Special Election this year.
He also emphasized their commitment to respecting the decision of the House of Representatives in selecting the caretaker for Palawan’s 3rd District, which comprises Aborlan Municipality and the city of Puerto Princesa.