Manila: The National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) on Friday expressed its opposition to the postponement of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) scheduled for December 1, 2025. The election watchdog emphasized the importance of conducting the elections as prescribed by law to allow the electorate an opportunity to choose their leaders.
According to Philippines News Agency, NAMFREL released a statement underscoring the significance of the barangay as the smallest government unit, which leads local programs and serves as a venue for resolving community issues. The statement highlighted that the barangay is the closest government entity to the people, and therefore, it is crucial for voters to regularly and periodically choose their leaders.
NAMFREL also stressed the critical role of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in empowering the youth to lead, voice concerns, and participate in barangay decision-making processes. The organization argued that postponing the SK elections deprives young people of representation and delays their participation in governance.
The opposition from NAMFREL comes in light of recent legislative developments. Before Congress adjourned sine die last week, both the Senate and the House of Representatives ratified the bicameral conference report of a bill seeking to reset the BSKE to next year, while also extending the terms of office for officials from three to four years. The bill is now awaiting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s signature to become law.
NAMFREL stated that although the Constitution grants Congress the authority to determine the term of office for barangay and SK officials through legislation, it is imperative for Congress to act consistently with democratic principles and the rule of law. They emphasized the need for genuine periodic elections and suggested that any proposed law extending the term of BSK officials should consider the 2025 BSKE.
The organization pointed out that previous postponements of the BSKE had disrupted the regular electoral cycle. "Delaying the 2025 BSKE can weaken people's trust in the electoral process and take away the chance for communities and the youth to be heard," NAMFREL warned.
