An election lawyer is urging Senate President Sherwin "Win" Gatchalian to reject legislative efforts to delay the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) scheduled for November 2026.
Romulo Macalintal has formally communicated his concerns in a letter, describing the proposal from Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero as a deceptive tactic that threatens the democratic right to vote.
Legal Concerns and Electoral Rights
This contract was breached when Republic Act No. 12232 postponed the December 2025 BSKE to November 2026.
Romulo Macalintal, Election Lawyer
Escudero's Senate bill aims to extend the terms of local officials from four to five years, effectively pushing the BSKE to November 2028.
Macalintal asserts that this move is unconstitutional and breaches the implied contract between elected officials and their constituents.
- The original term of officials elected in October 2023 ends December 2025.
- Postponing elections again undermines the public's right to elect their leaders.
He cited a Supreme Court precedent indicating that Congress's power to postpone elections is not absolute and should only occur under extraordinary circumstances.
Macalintal has also requested the opportunity to present his views before the Senate to advocate against this proposed postponement.
Escudero, in his defense of the bill, claims it aims to stabilize public service at the barangay level.
Gatchalian has indicated that the Senate will discuss the proposed measures and reach a decision soon.