Marcos signs law postponing Brgy., SK elections to Nov. 2028

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed into law a new bill that postpones the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) from its scheduled November date to November 2028. The law also extends the term of incumbent barangay and SK officials to five years. "With the signing of Republic Act No. 12326, which sets a five-year term for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials, our expectation from our current officials is clear. Use this period to improve services, complete initiated programs, and focus more on the needs of every community, family, and youth," Marcos said on his Facebook page. "This is not an extension of time in office. This is an extension of accountability to the people." The Congress passed the bill postponing the upcoming BSKE and extending the term of officials to five years. The measure was sent to Malacañang on Thursday for Marcos' signature to make it a law. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro also confirmed the signing of the measure in a press briefing on Friday. "The President has signed it," Castro said when asked during a media briefing in Ilocos Norte. Castro stated that both the President and lawmakers recognized the importance of barangay officials, including in combating criminality and maintaining cleanliness in the streets. She also explained that a longer term allows officials to implement long-term projects. According to her, the new law was not passed to make officials lazy. "This is for them to work. So for the barangay officials, what we need from you is work," Castro added. Under the new law, the BSKE is set for the second week of November 2028. It was supposed to be held on the first Monday of the coming November. Those who oppose the postponement of the said elections are expected to bring the issue to the Supreme Court. – FRJ GMA News