Deputy Speaker Benitez Advocates for BSKE Postponement Amid Fuel Crisis
House Deputy Speaker and Bacolod City Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez has expressed strong support for postponing the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) by six months, citing the ongoing fuel crisis as a critical justification. The BSKE is currently scheduled for November 2, 2026, with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) continuing its preparations despite the proposal.
Budget Reallocation Proposal
Benitez emphasized that the P13 billion to P14 billion appropriation allocated for the BSKE could be better utilized to augment resources during the fuel crisis. "I would rather use the P13 billion to P14 billion appropriation for the BSKE to augment to this crisis (fuel crisis)," he stated. He suggested that this budget could fund financial assistance programs for affected citizens, and lawmakers are planning to draft legislation to formalize the postponement.
Constitutional Concerns and Justification
The lawmaker acknowledged potential constitutional challenges, noting that the Supreme Court might deem such a move unconstitutional. However, he argued that a "just cause" exists due to the severity of the fuel crisis. Benitez drew parallels to the COVID-19 pandemic, warning that the situation could worsen. "Some people saying that we have to prepare that it might be worst than the Covid-19 pandemic situation," he said. He stressed the need for the National Government to be ready and to mobilize all available funds to respond effectively.
Comelec's Stance on Preparations
In response, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia confirmed that preparations for the November 2 BSKE are ongoing. He mentioned receiving information about postponement plans linked to the crisis but emphasized that the commission cannot halt its activities based solely on reports. Garcia reiterated that Comelec will proceed with its duties unless official directives are issued, highlighting the procedural nature of election planning.
The debate over the BSKE postponement underscores broader concerns about resource allocation during emergencies, with Benitez pushing for a shift in priorities to address immediate national needs.
