Comelec may suspend BSKE prep after poll delay

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is considering suspending some of its preparations for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE), following Congress's ratification of a bicameral conference committee report postponing the polls.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia stated during an interview that they would hold an emergency meeting next week to discuss potential adjustments, such as suspending voter registration from July 1-11 and reassessing procurement processes for items like metal ballot boxes and indelible ink.

Garcia noted that if the BSKE is rescheduled to November 2026, Comelec might extend the voter registration period, which could take place in October after the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election.

The poll chief also mentioned a possible budget reassessment for an increase in honoraria for teachers who would man the polls and noted that P7 billion had been allocated for BSKE expenses.

Some political analysts suggest that postponing the BSKE could be part of a strategy to prevent barangay and SK officials from being distracted during campaign periods, while others like Kabataan Partylist Rep. Raoul Manuel argue it fuels patronage politics and undermines governance at the local level.