Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced a delay in the delivery of election supplies and paraphernalia for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) due to the ongoing proposal to postpone the November 2 polls.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairman George Garcia stated that suppliers have been instructed to pause the delivery of election materials, which were procured through public bidding. "We are holding off on the delivery of the supplies for now. We want to make sure and get clear confirmation on whether the elections is pushing through or not," Garcia mentioned in an interview. He assured that once the procurement process is finalized, the delivery would proceed smoothly.

In addition to delaying the delivery of supplies, Comelec is also preparing to defer the training sessions for individuals who will serve in the BSKE. These training sessions were initially scheduled for mid-September. "The training of our teachers serving in the elections hasn't started yet. It will begin some three weeks from now," Garcia noted. The poll body plans to cover the costs associated with the venue, transportation, and meals for the training participants.

Garcia has also urged the Senate and the House of Representatives to promptly decide on whether the village and youth elections should occur next month. "We continue to appeal for a clear answer this September on whether the BSKE will push through or not," he emphasized.

Senator Francis Escudero has proposed a bill to extend the terms of barangay and SK officials to five years and reschedule the BSKE to 2028. Similarly, Negros Occidental Representative Javier Miguel Benitez has submitted a bill advocating for the postponement of the November 2 elections, suggesting a new date in November 2028.