Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is set to hold an emergency meeting next week to discuss the ongoing preparations for the December 1 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) amid the growing likelihood that it will be postponed.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia stated that the meeting will address key issues such as the procurement of election materials and voter registration. Garcia mentioned in an online interview that certain items, like indelible ink, should not be purchased at the moment as they might get damaged. He also noted that voter registration, initially planned from July 1 to 11, would need to be postponed.

The potential delay in the elections follows the recent ratification by both the Senate and the House of Representatives of the bicameral conference committee report on the bill extending the term of incumbent barangay and SK officials. The proposed legislation seeks to extend the term of office from three to four years.

Garcia emphasized that the Comelec would adhere to the decisions made by Congress and await President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s action on the matter. The bill remains pending, with its future contingent on the President's decision to sign it into law.