By now, pending any protests, delays or disqualification cases, the winners of the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) have already been proclaimed. Among them, we see both new faces, especially among SK representatives, and returning personalities. Some prevailed in tightly contested races, while others secured victory by a considerable margin. Regardless of the path they took, they are now entrusted with the responsibility to serve their barangays. 

Congratulatory messages have poured in from various quarters, with the President delivering a video message in which he extended his felicitations to the newly elected and re-elected BSK officials. He also offered a “reminder” to the victors — “This is a new opportunity to serve the Filipinos and our country with all our heart, and more than our abilities. Let's be honest at all times. Let's always prioritize the welfare of the people because they are the reason why we want to serve the nation.”

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has declared the BSKE as generally successful, with only limited incidents of violence and isolated cases of election failure. Chairman George Garcia expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the elections, attributing its success to the resourcefulness of teachers and other electoral board members who ensured the integrity of the electoral process.

It should be noted that this year's BSKE is of particular significance, not just for its impact on the delivery of essential services within our barangays but also as a potential barometer of the nation's sentiment as we approach the 2025 midterm elections. This election also holds great importance because it will shape the next generation of leaders, many of whom have witnessed the crucial role of barangays during the long pandemic, when barangay leaders were at the frontlines of the crisis.

It is not an exaggeration to say that barangay and SK leaders form the foundational pillars of a strong nation. A well-managed barangay contributes to a stronger city, and unity should ideally begin at this grassroots level. Therefore, the call for these newly elected leaders to serve with honesty is not to be taken lightly, as transparent and responsible use of funds results in a better barangay, while corruption breeds leaders who hinder progress. 

The President, drawing from his extensive experience in local governance before his current role as the nation's chief executive, recognizes the pivotal role of barangays and SKs. He urged the newly elected leaders to join in the collective effort to strengthen the vision of a "Bagong Pilipinas.” 

“In our unity and collective efforts, we will definitely be able to promote the 'New Philippines' where each barangay is peaceful, happy, and progressive; where unity, understanding, and prosperity prevail; and where every citizen stands tall as Filipinos,” the President said in Filipino.

With previous delays in holding elections for the 42,000-plus barangays and that of the SK, this political exercise arrives at an opportune moment when citizens are more aware than ever of the critical roles that these elected leaders play. 

As the celebrations for the winners conclude and after their hands are raised in victory, it is now time to roll up their sleeves and get to work because the duty of governing a barangay never stops. A barangay may be the country’s smallest unit of government, but each one is a link that is part of a bigger chain that can either propel or restrain the nation.