Manila, Philippines — After recently expressing support for the recommendation of some lawmakers to temporarily suspend the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) this November.
Senator Imee Marcos has filed a bill in the Senate seeking to postpone the scheduled polls.
Under Senate Bill No. 2067 filed by the senator, the elections would instead be held in October 2027.
According to Marcos, amid the current crisis being experienced, many Filipinos may not be able to vote due to the high cost of fuel and transportation to polling places.
She also noted that the elections fall close to All Souls’ Day, raising concerns that many people may not be able to travel back to their home provinces.
If the proposed measure is passed, voters would also be given more time to update their registration.
The nearly ₱16 billion budget intended for this year’s elections could instead be used to assist Filipinos affected by the crisis, such as for food, fuel, and other basic needs.
The senator also believes that current barangay officials will be able to continue performing their duties even if the elections are postponed.