Senate Approves Bill Extending Term of Barangay, SK Officials to Five Years, Postpones Elections

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate on Monday approved on third reading Senate Bill no. 2387, setting the term of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to five years, effectively postponing this year’s village and youth council elections to 2028. READ: Election lawyer slams another BSKE reset Thirteen voted for the bill while Senators Vicente Sotto The bill, which was approved with 13 affirmative votes, aims to ensure continuity and stability in local governance by extending the term of elected officials in villages (barangay) and youth councils (Sangguniang Kabataan). However, the postponement of the elections has drawn criticism. Some election lawyers have voiced concerns that repeatedly resetting the election schedule undermines democratic processes and disenfranchises voters. The current term for barangay and SK officials is three years, with a limit of two consecutive re-elections. The decision to extend the term and postpone the elections could have significant implications for local administration and the accountability of elected officials to their constituents. The move is expected to shape the landscape of Philippine local politics for the coming years.