A LEGISLATIVE proposal seeking to extend the term of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials had just been approved at the House of Representatives.
Garnering 211 affirmative votes during the plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker Iloilo 4th district Rep. Ferjenel Biron, the lower chamber approved House Bill 10971 (An Act setting the term of office of barangay officials and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan, and for other purposes).
The measure is designed to extend the terms of office of barangay and SK officials from four to five years.
If approved in the Senate — and signed by the President, the bill would amend Republic Act 12232 which sets the term of village chief and youth leaders.
Enactment of the bill would also mean that the barangay elections set in November this year would push through. The approved House version of the bill states that the BSKE will be held in November 2028 and every five years thereafter.
According to its proponents, extending the terms of barangay and SK officials from four to five years would promote continuity and stability in barangay governance by reducing disruptions caused by frequent elections and allowing officials to focus on public service.
The measure is also meant to provide sufficient time for the officials to implement and complete community development programs and projects.
Under the House-approved bill, incumbent barangay officials are deemed to have completed one term due to the two-year extension.
Sitting barangay officials who are in their consecutive term in the same position will be allowed to run for the same post in 2028.
The bill retains the existing three-term limit for barangay officials and one-term limit for SK officials.
