House Ratifies Terms Extension for Barangay and SK Officials
The House of Representatives ratified the measure extending the terms of elected Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials from three years to four years on the evening of June 11. This extension of terms aims to provide continuity and stability in local governance, local leaders noted.
Earlier, on June 9, the House approved its version of the bill, which originally proposed to double the officials’ terms from three to six years. However, during Bicameral Conference Committee hearings, the Senate’s more moderate approach prevailed. The ratified measure now reflects this compromise, extending terms to four years instead of six.
Term Limits and Election Schedule
Under the ratified version, no elected Barangay official may serve more than three consecutive terms in the same position. Meanwhile, SK officials are allowed only one term. This adjustment seeks to balance experience with fresh leadership.
The next Barangay and SK elections are slated for the first Monday of November 2026 and will continue every four years thereafter. The term of office for elected officials will begin on December 1 following the elections.
Restrictions for Incumbents and Continuity in Office
Incumbent Barangay officials who are on their third consecutive term will be barred from running for the same position in the 2026 elections. This rule encourages new candidates to step forward while maintaining governance standards.
All current Barangay and SK officials will remain in office until their successors are duly elected and qualified, unless they are removed or suspended for valid reasons. This provision ensures no leadership vacuum occurs during the transition.
Wednesday marked the final session day of the 19th Congress, where this important local governance reform was finalized, sources said.
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