Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act No. 12232, effectively postponing the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) from December 2025 to November 2026, while also establishing a four-year term for village and youth officials.

According to Philippines News Agency, the newly signed law restricts barangay officials to a maximum of three consecutive terms in the same position, while SK officials are limited to serving only one term. The forthcoming BSKE is scheduled for the first Monday of November 2026, with subsequent elections occurring every four years. Successful candidates will take office on December 1 following the elections.

The law stipulates that current officials will continue in a hold-over capacity unless they are removed or suspended. However, those completing their third consecutive term are prohibited from seeking re-election in 2026. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is tasked with creating the implementing rules within 90 days after the law takes effect.

President Marcos previously expressed support for delaying the village polls, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the inaugural parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro region. The most recent BSKE was conducted on October 30, 2023.