Special poll for Singson post scheduled May 28

VIGAN CITY -- The Commission on Elections will hold on May 28 a special election for the post vacated by former Ilocos Sur congressman Ronald Singson, who was convicted of drug charges by a Hong Kong court in February.

Comelec Commissioner Lucenito Tagle said in Manila the poll body decided on the date to meet the 90-day period mandated for the holding of such an election.

“It will be on May 28. Preparations are underway,” he said.

It was not immediately known, however, when those eyeing Singson’s seat may file their certificates of candidacy.

The Comelec was notified by the House of Representatives last week that the congressional post of Ilocos Sur’s second district was officially vacant.

The Comelec will hold the special election manually since the congressional race does not require the consolidation of votes on the national level.

Singson has been stricken out from the House roster after he was sentenced by a Hong Kong court to 18 months in jail for illegal drugs.