Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has finally announced a long-awaited decision regarding the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), originally scheduled for November 2, 2026.
The President has signed Republic Act No. 12326, which provides for a five-year term extension for incumbent Barangay and SK officials, from their previous four-year terms.
The law also postpones the Barangay and SK elections to the second Monday of November 2028.
Palace Press Officer and Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro confirmed the development, saying the programs and projects of incumbent barangay officials should continue, particularly those aimed at reducing crime rates in their respective communities and implementing flood control projects.
The law also limits Barangay officials to serving a maximum of two consecutive terms in the same position, while Sangguniang Kabataan officials are limited to one term.
Incumbent officials covered by the two-year extension will be considered to have completed one full five-year term.
Those already serving their final term will no longer be eligible to run again for the same position.
The President reminded the officials to devote their extended time in office to work and public service.
He also directed them to complete and prioritize ongoing programs focused on communities, families, and the youth.
Meanwhile, in a separate statement, Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Garcia said the filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COCs), originally scheduled from September 28 to October 5, will no longer push through.
The commission will also cancel all activities and preparations related to the BSKE.
COMELEC also announced that all election bans concerning financial assistance and other social services have been lifted.
Printed ballots and other election paraphernalia already prepared for the polls will be temporarily stored in the commission’s warehouse to preserve their quality.
Under Republic Act No. 12326, the remaining funds allocated to COMELEC for the postponed elections will be used for preparations for the 2028 National and Local Elections.