Davao del norte: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has called on the youth of the Philippines to register as voters for the upcoming Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections scheduled for November next year. The initiative aims to encourage young Filipinos to take part in the democratic process and exercise their right to vote.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairman George Garcia emphasized that teenagers who are currently 14 years old can register as SK voters, provided they turn 15 on or before the youth polls set for November 2, 2026. Speaking at a Voters Education Program in Davao del Norte, Garcia highlighted the importance of involving the youth in the electoral process, stating that it offers them a sense of belonging and empowers them to have a voice in society.

The poll body outlined that, as per Resolution 11177, individuals eligible to register as SK voters should be at least 15 years but not more than 30 years of age. Additionally, they must have resided in their barangay for at least six months on or before the Sangguniang Kabataan elections. This eligibility criterion aims to ensure that young voters are genuinely connected to their local communities.

Based on Comelec's latest data, 223,282 individuals applied to become SK voters between October 20 and December 14. Among these, 218,801 applications were from new registrants, 918 were transfers from other cities or municipalities, 279 were transfers within the same city or municipality, and 3,284 were for correction of entries. The voters' registration period is set to conclude on May 18, 2026.