The House plenary (PPAB)

The proposed measure that would extend the terms of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials from three years to six years is one step away from attaining final passage in the House of Representatives.

Approved on second reading during plenary session on Monday night, Jan. 27 was House Bill (HB) No.11287, or the proposed Act fixing the term of office of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials and changing the term of office from three years to six years.

Deputy Speaker Isabela 1st district Rep. Tonypet Albano, the presiding officer at that time, declared HB No.11287 as approved on second reading after a simple voice vote ("ayes" vs. "nayes").

The affirmative votes drowned out the negative votes.

The 300-plus strong House now has a chance to give final approval to the term extension measure next week, or before the scheduled recess.

Principally authored by no less than House Speaker Martin Romualdez, HB No.11287 amends for the purpose Sections 42 and 43 of Republic Act (RA) No.7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991, as amended. 

It also seeks to reschedule the next Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on the second Monday of May 2029.

The bill sets a two-term limit for elective Barangay officials and one term for elective SK officials.

All incumbent village and youth officials elected last Oct. 30, 2023--the previous BSKE--will remain in office until the next election in May 2029, unless they are sooner removed or suspended for cause.