ILOILO – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has voiced his support for extending the terms of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials, as well as local chief executives (LCEs) like governors and lawmakers, citing the challenges posed by their current three-year terms.
A proposal by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and other prominent lawmakers calls for a fixed six-year term for barangay and SK officials.
The goal, according to Romualdez, is to ensure project continuity and shield these officials from political interference.
The proposal was made at the Liga ng mga Barangay National Congress in Pasay City on Tuesday.
Defensor highlighted the difficulties faced by lawmakers in passing legislation within a three-year term, noting that crucial projects often require more time to develop and pass through the legislative process.
He cited his own experience with the Career Guidance and Counseling Act, which he struggled to pass until his last term.
“Extending the term can make a significant difference, especially for congressmen and other local chief executives who are planning long-term projects,” Defensor explained.
He also pointed out the disparity in term lengths between lawmakers, who serve three years, and senators, who serve six.
House Bill (HB) No. 10747, also known as the “Act Setting the Term of Office of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Officials to Six Years”, aims to standardize the terms to avoid the confusion caused by previous extensions and poll suspensions.
It stipulates that barangay and SK officials cannot serve more than two terms, and sets the next barangay and SK elections for the last Monday of October 2029, with subsequent elections to be held every six years thereafter./PN
