The Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) is opposing the proposed postponement of the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), warning that extending the terms of incumbent local officials without allowing voters to cast their ballots could weaken accountability at the grassroots level.
In a statement released on September 22, LENTE urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to veto the measure that would move the scheduled November 2, 2026 BSKE to November 2028.
The election watchdog argued that Congress’ proposal would extend the terms of barangay and SK officials from four years to five years by amending Republic Act No. 12232. According to LENTE, another postponement would mean voters would have to wait longer before choosing their local representatives.
The House of Representatives has already adopted the Senate version of the measure, clearing the way for its transmission to Malacañang. President Marcos has said the bill will have to be reviewed before he decides whether to approve or reject it.
The controversy comes as the Commission on Elections continues preparations for the November 2 polls.
COMELEC Chairman George Garcia said the poll body must continue with its preparations because, under the existing law, the BSKE remains scheduled for November 2. The filing of certificates of candidacy is set for September 28 to October 5 unless a postponement law is enacted and signed.
That deadline has become particularly significant because candidates and election officials need clarity before the formal election calendar advances.
The proposed postponement has also raised questions over election spending. COMELEC has already spent billions of pesos preparing for the 2026 polls, including election materials and other logistical requirements. A Senate committee previously advanced legislation extending the terms of barangay and SK officials to five years, with the measure effectively moving the next BSKE to 2028.
Supporters of the proposal have framed the measure as a way of establishing a fixed five-year term for local officials rather than simply postponing an election. Critics, however, have questioned whether changing the election schedule through term extensions could undermine voters’ opportunity to hold local officials accountable.
For now, the legal situation remains dependent on what happens to the bill in Malacañang.
If the measure is signed into law, COMELEC will have to adjust its preparations and election calendar. If it is vetoed or otherwise does not become law, the November 2 BSKE and the scheduled filing of certificates of candidacy remain the operative timetable.
The coming days could therefore determine whether millions of voters proceed to the polls this November — or whether the next barangay and SK elections are pushed back to 2028.
