Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal has filed a motion for partial reconsideration with the Supreme Court regarding its decision to extend the terms of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to five years and to reschedule the Barangay and SK Elections (BSKE) to November 2028.
In his appeal, Macalintal contends that while the Congress's power to extend officials' terms should be acknowledged as constitutional, the postponement of the BSKE, originally set for November 2026, violates the Constitution.
He describes his proposal as a 'win-win solution,' suggesting it would preserve congressional authority while restoring voters' rights to elect their leaders in a timely manner.
On November 6, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition questioning Republic Act No. 12326, which formalized the five-year extension of local officials' terms and set the next elections for November 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue being appealed by Romulo Macalintal?
Romulo Macalintal is appealing the Supreme Court's decision to extend the terms of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials to five years and to move the next elections to November 2028.
What does Macalintal argue regarding congressional power?
Macalintal argues that while Congress's power to extend officials' terms is constitutional, the postponement of the upcoming elections violates voters' rights.
What was the outcome of the Supreme Court's previous ruling on this issue?
On November 6, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging Republic Act No. 12326, which extended the terms of local officials and rescheduled the BSKE.
Reporting by Ashley Romero for Rapport Philippines. This report was prepared from available source material and reviewed for factual consistency. Further verified updates will be added as the newsroom receives them.