Comelec braces for SC petitions over BSKE postponement

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is anticipating the filing of petitions before the Supreme Court (SC) challenging the postponement of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in November 2026. Comelec Chairman George Garcia told Super Radyo dzBB that the primary concern is "what if someone goes to the Supreme Court and gets an injunctive restraining order." As a direct consequence, the poll body has decided to cancel the filing of certificates of candidacy and other related activities. The COC filing period was originally scheduled from September 28 to October 5. Garcia elaborated that if a restraining order is issued late, it would severely disrupt election operations. A delay extending into the second week of October, he warned, would make it impossible to conduct the elections in November 2026 due to halted logistics, canceled teacher training sessions, and suspended COC filings. Meanwhile, Garcia confirmed that all election-related prohibitions and restrictions in connection with the November 2026 schedule, including those on public works and social assistance, are no longer in effect. Addressing the financial implications, Garcia clarified that the P8 billion already spent on election materials, such as printed ballots, indelible ink, and ballpens, will not be wasted. Comelec intends to issue a resolution declaring that all printed ballots and purchased paraphernalia will be preserved and utilized for the rescheduled election in November 2028. However, he emphasized that moving the election date will require significant additional funding. Garcia explained that halting the polls means voter registration will have to reopen around November and run through July of next year. This necessitates more precincts, additional ballots, and increased funding to hire more teachers and election personnel. Comelec's budget has a remaining balance of around P11 billion in the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), which Garcia stated will be used in preparing for the 2028 polls. Information Source: GMA News Philippines