Comelec Guarantees P3 Billion Election Preparations Remain Valid Amid Postponement Discussions
Amid growing speculation that the November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) could face another postponement, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) provided firm assurances on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Comelec Chairman George Garcia emphasized that the substantial P3 billion already allocated and spent for election preparations will not be squandered, regardless of any potential schedule changes.
Materials and Ballots Remain Fully Usable for Future Polls
In a detailed interview, Chairman Garcia clarified that the significant expenditure, which covered the procurement of essential election paraphernalia and the printing of official ballots, retains its value. "There is nothing to be put to waste given the Comelec's ongoing preparations. The materials we procured can still be used if the BSKE is reset," Garcia stated confidently.
He further explained that the over 90 million official ballots already printed remain perfectly functional and can be deployed whenever the elections eventually take place, pending a formal resolution from the poll body. Additionally, the metal ballot boxes acquired by the commission are designed for durability and can be utilized whether the elections proceed in November 2026 or at a later date.
To ensure optimal resource management, Garcia noted that the delivery schedule for procured indelible ink could be strategically delayed. This adjustment aims to prevent expiration and maintain the ink's effectiveness for future electoral processes.
Political Calls for Postponement and Comelec's Stance
The discussion around postponement gained momentum following a proposal from Deputy Speaker and Bacolod City Representative Albee Benitez. Benitez advocated for a six-month delay of the November 2026 BSKE, suggesting that the allocated funds could be better directed toward assisting sectors impacted by the ongoing Middle East crisis.
In response, Garcia expressed that Comelec does not inherently oppose the idea of postponement, provided it adheres to a specific timeframe. "We're okay as long as it is not set beyond May 2027... A reset BSKE is doable as long as we have it on or before May 2027," he articulated. This deadline is crucial, as the commission must shift its full attention to preparing for the automated National and Local Elections (NLE) scheduled for May 2028, with intensive preparations set to commence in June 2027.
Garcia underscored Comelec's commitment to compliance with governmental directives, stating, "The Comelec is not one to oppose the postponement of the BSKE. We will always comply with what Congress and the Executive Department order us to do." This cooperative approach ensures that election planning remains aligned with broader national priorities while safeguarding the substantial investments already made in democratic processes.
