THE bill resetting the December 2025 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) and extending the terms of all village and youth officials is set to be signed by President Bongbong Marcos Jr. on August 12.
This was according to Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia, who said he was informed by MalacaƱang of the scheduled signing.
"The Palace informed us that there will be a formal signing of the law re BSKE fixing of term and postponement on August 12 at 2 pm," said Garcia.
Earlier, the official said they expected the measure to be signed by Marcos "any moment from now."
"The Palace has not given any indication that it will be vetoed by the President or that it will not be signed," Garcia previously said.
Earlier, the House of Representatives and the Senate approved the bill that will move the holding of the BSKE to the first Monday of November 2026, and every four years thereafter.
The bill will also extend the terms of office of barangay and SK officials from three to four years, with barangay officials limited to three consecutive terms and SK officials to one term.
Despite the impending enactment of the bill, Garcia said they will continue preparations for the BSKE scheduled for December 1.
He explained this is because there remains a possibility that the elections will push through on December 1, particularly if the Supreme Court intervenes.
"Even if the law is signed, we will continue our preparations because someone may question it before the Supreme Court (SC). What will happen if it issues a temporary restraining order and the Comelec is not prepared?" said Garcia.
Asked when the Comelec will cease its preparations for the BSKE, the poll chief said it will be once the Supreme Court fails to act on any possible petitions.
"We will prepare until it becomes clear that the SC won't act on a petition that may be filed questioning the postponement of the BSKE," said Garcia. (Anton Banal/SunStar Philippines)
