Comelec to proceed with BSKE prep despite postponement

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – Atty. Lionel Marco Castillano, Commission on Elections regional director for the Negros Island Region, said the poll body will continue preparations for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections despite their postponement.

On Wednesday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12232, which moves the December 2025 BSKE to the first Monday of November 2026.

Under the new law, subsequent regular BSKE will be held every four years.

The law also sets the term of office for all elected barangay and SK officials at four years.

Castillano said Thursday they expect a petition to be filed before the Supreme Court challenging the postponement.

One reason for the delay, he added, is the conduct of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao elections set for Oct. 13.

“The President wants the poll body to focus on the BARMM elections,” Castillano said.

As part of preparations, the Comelec will proceed with hearings, inventory, and procurement of election paraphernalia.

The BSKE will be held on the first Monday of November 2026 and every four years thereafter, with winners assuming office on Dec. 1 following the elections.

Incumbent officials will remain in a holdover capacity unless removed or suspended, but those serving their third consecutive term will be barred from seeking reelection in 2026.

The Comelec is mandated to issue implementing rules within 90 days of the law’s effectivity.