• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is set to accept certificates of candidacy (COCs) for the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) starting Sept. 28 as preparations continue despite pending changes to the law governing the elections.
The COC filing period is scheduled from Sept. 28 to Oct. 5, with Comelec officials saying they are preparing to receive candidates during the prescribed period. The BSKE is currently set for Nov. 2, 2026.
Comelec-Negros Island Region Director Lionel Marco Castillano said that if the new law resetting or amending the present BSKE law is not yet in effect by Sept. 28, the poll body will continue accepting COCs until Oct. 5.
Castillano, however, said that Comelec is hoping that Congress will complete the legislative process before Sept. 28 so that the new law will already be in place and Comelec can proceed under the amended provisions.
The measure has already reached the enrolled bill stage after the House of Representatives adopted the Senate version. It is expected to be transmitted to Malacañang for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signature, followed by publication and effectivity in accordance with the law.
Comelec officials said all preparations are in place for the Sept. 28 start of COC filing.
The election period is scheduled from Oct. 3 to Nov. 9 while the campaign period will run from Oct. 22 to 31.
The Comelec is also preparing for the restrictions that will take effect during the election period.
Among these are the prohibition on the release or disbursement of public funds and the construction of public works beginning Sept. 18, subject to exemptions provided under election laws.
For barangay-level activities, Castillano emphasized that the restrictions cover the distribution or purchase of aid using barangay funds and public works undertaken by barangays while certain activities funded by the national government may be covered by exemptions. | GPB
