The Senate last Tuesday approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 2816, which if enacted into law, establishes a four-year term of office for barangay officials and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK).

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, one of the authors of the measure, expressed strong support for the bill, emphasizing its potential to provide stability and continuity in local governance.

In his manifestation during the Senate session, Go highlighted the measure’s importance for local governance, noting its role in addressing challenges faced by barangay and SK officials.

“As one of the authors of this measure, I am very happy with the progress of this bill, as this measure promotes stability and continuity in barangay and SK leadership,” he said.

The bill proposes the term of barangay and SK officials to four years while limiting them to three consecutive terms in the same position. It also ensures that the next regular elections for these officials will be held on October 2027, with subsequent elections scheduled every four years.

As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Youth, Go underscored the measure’s potential in empowering young leaders and fostering civic engagement.

“Meanwhile, as the chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth, the bill ensures that the Sangguniang Kabataan continues to play a vital component in youth representation, as this will also ensure the opportunity to empower young leaders and encourage civic engagement. By extending their term, we allow them to maximize their contributions to youth development and nation-building.”