Comelec says BSKE almost ready as postponement push sparks backlash

MANILA  (May 11) — The Commission on Elections says it is nearly fully prepared for the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), even as some lawmakers push to postpone the polls yet again — a move critics say could deny communities their right to choose local leaders.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the poll body is already “90% to 95% ready” for the Nov. 2 elections, with ballots already printed and only a few remaining materials still being procured.

“Kami sa Comelec, 90% to 95% na kaming handa para sa BSKE,” Garcia said in a radio interview Sunday.

The assurance comes as proposals resurface in Congress to defer the barangay and youth elections and instead divert unused election funds to address the country’s energy crisis.

But for many local communities, another postponement would mean extending the terms of barangay officials once more without voters getting a say.

“For me, it is good to push through with the elections since they should be held regularly,” Garcia said.

“If you no longer want your officials, this is your opportunity to replace them.”

The BSKE has already faced repeated delays in previous years, drawing criticism from governance advocates who argue that postponements weaken accountability at the grassroots level — where barangay officials directly influence aid distribution, neighborhood disputes, peace and order, and access to community services.

Youth groups are also closely watching the debate, warning that delaying the Sangguniang Kabataan elections again could further discourage young Filipinos from participating in public leadership.

In many Mindanao communities, barangay elections are often viewed as more personal and immediate than national races because local officials are the first people residents turn to during emergencies, conflicts, and daily governance concerns.

Nationwide voter registration for the BSKE remains ongoing until May 18, 2026.

With preparations nearly complete, pressure is now mounting on lawmakers to decide whether the country will finally hold long-delayed grassroots elections — or once again extend the stay of thousands of barangay officials without a fresh public mandate.