Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is setting its sights on registering at least two million young voters for the upcoming 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), which are slated to take place on November 2. Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia made this announcement during a voter registration activity held in a local town, emphasizing the importance of youth participation in the electoral process.
According to Philippines News Agency, Chairman Garcia highlighted the commission's efforts to enhance accessibility for young voters by establishing satellite registration sites. This initiative aims to facilitate the registration process, especially for the youth, encouraging their involvement in the democratic exercise. Garcia noted, "Based on the latest estimate, we will be able to register four million new voters, and half of them, or about two million, are youth who will vote for the SK (Sangguniang Kabataan). Our youth are willing to participate in the election process."
The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) voters, who are aged between 15 and 24, represent a crucial demographic in the forthcoming elections. Garcia, alongside other senior officials from Comelec, spearheaded a voter education campaign at the municipal covered court, which saw the participation of approximately 1,000 senior high school students and local officials. The campaign underscores the significance of making young voters feel valued and ensuring they have the opportunity to register and vote.
As of January 18, 2026, Comelec has recorded a total of 1,356,410 registered voters for the BSKE, which includes 1,028,835 regular voters and 327,575 SK voters. The voter registration process recommenced on October 20, 2025, and will continue until May 18, 2026, providing ample opportunity for eligible voters to register.
Source: Philippines News Agency
