Tuloy ba o hindi tuloy? Everyone is in suspense. Last week the House of Representatives voted to postpone the Barangay and Sanggunian Kabataan Elections (BSKE). Voting 153-4 the members of the House of Representatives okayed it on final reading the proposed measure and extending the barangay officials to remain in office until the elections on the second Monday starting in 2029. Whereas, the approved Senate bill calls for 4 year term as against congress’ six years. Romy Makalintal whose practice as election lawyer spans decades quoting a Supreme Court decision said Congress by law cannot postpone the forthcoming December 1, 2025 elections. Which will prevail? From a layman’s point of view, easy to be understood, Supreme Court is SUPREME! I am no lawyer, what I know, Supreme Court decisions are parts of the laws of our republic. President Bongbong Marcos wanted it postponed too, er..fixing the term kuno. Abangan.
People love to talk about politics. BSKE is definitely non-partisan as envisioned. However, the politicians are involved by way of expression of support, even logistical. The fixing of the term of the barangay officials can be credited to Speaker Martin Romualdez and Congressman Sandro Marcos. They believe the barangay officials are indebted to the speaker and Marcoses. Is it a preparation for 2028? It’s a big YES. In the meanwhile, some of the interesting barangay elections will be in Dau, Mabalacat City and Balibago in Angeles City. These oversized barangays are like small municipalities.In Balibago, it maybe former Barangay Captain Rodelio Tony Mamac may comeback versus former City Councilor PG Ponce. Former Councilor Alfie Bonifacio maybe interested also but should transfer again his residence. In today’s setup, the one who has the healthy treasure chest can survive and may chalk a victory. Meaning, if largesse to voters are well spent, most likely the candidate will clinch it. Incumbent PG Ponce is still the man to beat.
Yes Virginia, he is coming back. Many are surprised how come the long time serving Mabalacat Mayor Marino ‘Boking’ Morales is relaunching his political career via the barangay elections in Dau. And this time with the backing of businessman Rodolfo ‘Tatay Bong’ Pineda. With Pineda’s support, Mayor Geld Aquino will do the same. To recall, Morales served for more than twenty years and was unseated because the court ruled his ineligibility and Garbo was declared winner. Garbo run for a re-election and clinched it, while Morales run for vice mayor in that election and was beaten by newcomer Geld Aquino. Now Garbo will be a private citizen after his loss to Aquino in the recent mayoral race. Ganyan talaga ang buhay!