BSKE elections postponement signed

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed a new law postponing this year’s Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) and establishing new term limits and schedules for local officials.

Marcos approved the enactment of Republic Act 12232, which officially sets the next BSKE for 2 November 2026, and every four years thereafter.

The law also changes the term of office for all elected barangay and SK officials from three to four years.

Under the new law, barangay officials can now serve a maximum of three consecutive four-year terms, while Sangguniang Kabataan officials will be limited to a single term.

Newly elected officials will assume office on 1 December following the election.

The law allows current officials to remain in a “holdover capacity” until their successors are elected and qualified.

However, it bars barangay officials who are currently on their third consecutive term from seeking reelection in the 2026 polls.

The Commission on Elections is mandated to release the implementing rules and regulations within 90 days of the law’s effectivity.

The law takes effect immediately after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.