Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will ask President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to declare November 3 as a holiday in connection with the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) set for November 2.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia announced their intention to request the President to declare November 3 a holiday to accommodate voters, especially those traveling to their provinces to vote. Garcia emphasized the importance of the holiday, noting, "The Comelec will request the President to consider declaring November 3 a holiday. Since November 1 is All Saints' Day, many of our fellow citizens will be traveling to their hometowns."

Garcia pointed out that the absence of a holiday on November 3 may force voters to rush back to their work or school commitments, potentially hindering their ability to vote. "However, if there is work or school on November 3, they might rush back from the provinces on November 2 and fail to vote at their polling precincts," he explained.

By declaring November 3 a holiday, Garcia believes it will provide citizens with the necessary time to travel back and ensure their participation in the elections. "They could travel back on that day instead, ensuring that they can cast their votes on November 2," Garcia added.

The upcoming BSKE will allow regular voters aged 18 and above to elect new local leaders, including a barangay chairman and councilors. Meanwhile, Filipino youth aged 15-17 will vote for a new Sangguniang Kabataan leader and councilors.