Eastern visayas: Over 110,000 young voters in Eastern Visayas have registered during a recent 10-day registration period, showcasing a strong interest from the youth sector in participating in governance. The regional poll official highlighted this significant turnout on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, of the 143,318 voter applications processed from August 1 to 10, around 110,878 were first-time voters for the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), aged between 15 to 17. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) Eastern Visayas regional director, Jose Nick Mendros, noted the increasing involvement of young Filipinos in the electoral process as a positive development.

Despite discussions about election postponements, many young voters seized the opportunity to register, demonstrating their interest in participating in the democratic process and influencing the selection of leaders. Mendros expressed satisfaction with this active participation from the youth.

During the registration period, election officers also processed applications from 22,225 regular registrants aged 18 and above. Additional applications included requests for correction of entries, reactivation, change of status, and correction of records.

The registration period was conducted ahead of the official signing of a law postponing the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), originally scheduled for December 1, 2025. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12232 on August 14, which reschedules the BSKE to the first Monday of November 2026.

Under Republic Act 12232, future regular BSKE elections will occur every four years. The law also stipulates that the term of office for all elected barangay and SK officials will be four years.