Youth Council Urges President Marcos to Reject Bill Delaying Barangay and SK Elections

The Youth and Students Sectoral Council (YSSC) of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) has publicly opposed proposed legislation that would delay the upcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections. Senate Bill 2816 and House Bill 1187 aim to extend the current three-year term of these local officials to six years, pushing the next election from 2025 to 2029. In a recent statement, YSSC representatives Ninian Sumadia and Ruperto Aleroza urged President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to veto these bills if they are passed by Congress. They argue that such a delay would hinder the democratic process and the accountability of local leaders. The council emphasized the importance of regular elections to ensure responsive governance and criticized the bills for not addressing critical issues in local governance. They also pointed out that extending terms does not necessarily lead to better performance or service delivery. The council stressed the need for adequate government support for local officials to effectively carry out their duties. Furthermore, they referenced a Supreme Court decision that declared the postponement of the 2022 elections unconstitutional, advocating for enhanced institutional support for barangay and SK officials as their roles grow.