Comelec: No decision yet on Bong Acop DQ in Antipolo special polls

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday dismissed a claim that Bong Acop has been disqualified from running for the special elections in Antipolo City. 

The Comelec flagged a circulating post by a Facebook page named “VIS News Media” claiming that the son of the late lawmaker Romeo Acop was disqualified by the Comelec “due to alleged widespread vote buying” after a resident of Antipolo City’s 2nd District filed the complaint before the poll body on Monday. 

The poll body noted that the Comelec en banc is yet to decide on the disqualification case against the candidate. 

READ: Marcos declares March 14 holiday for Antipolo 2nd district special polls

“Yesterday, March 2, 2026, the Comelec Law Department received an election offense complaint against Bong Acop filed by a resident of Antipolo City, but this does not mean that Bong Acop is already disqualified. The complaint will undergo thorough review and due process,” the Comelec said in a statement. 

The younger Acop is one of the six candidates for the special elections in the 2nd district of Antipolo City. The elections will be held on March 14, 2026 following the death of the lawmaker in December 2025. 

READ: Comelec finalizing preparations for Antipolo 2nd District special polls

From the original seven certificates of candidacy received by the Comelec, incumbent councilor LJ Sumulong withdrew his candidacy, citing consultation efforts with his party, the Nationalist People’s Coalition, and dialogue with Mayor Jun Ynares and Acop. Sumulong also shared that his dialogue with Ynares and Acop was meant to respect the legacy of the late lawmaker. 

Meanwhile, the Comelec has completed printing the ballots for the special polls. Aside from this, the poll body will be implementing its early voting hours for senior citizens, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. /das