Comelec Revises Voter Registration Projection to Four Million for Upcoming Barangay and SK Elections
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced a substantial upward revision in its projection for voter registration applicants ahead of the November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). Instead of the previously estimated 1.4 million, the poll body now anticipates a total of four million Filipinos to register as new voters during the ongoing registration activities.
Increased Youth Engagement Drives Higher Estimates
In a recent interview, Comelec Chairman George Garcia revealed that based on the latest data and trends, the commission is adjusting its forecast significantly. "Based on our latest estimates, the total number of registrants may reach 4 million," Garcia stated, highlighting the growing interest in the electoral process.
Current statistics show that as of the latest count, Comelec has already received 1,356,410 applications for voter registration nationwide. This breakdown includes:
- 1,028,835 applicants for the barangay elections
- 327,575 applicants as Sangguniang Kabataan voters
Chairman Garcia expressed particular enthusiasm about the youth participation, noting "This is a welcome development as the youth are once again proving to be more engaged" in the democratic process.
Election Calendar and Candidacy Filing Details
Alongside the registration updates, Garcia disclosed important timeline information for the upcoming elections. The Commission is scheduled to open the filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COC) in October 2026, exactly one month before the November elections.
"The filing of COCs will be held on October," Garcia confirmed, adding that both barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan aspirants will submit their documents to election officials during this period.
The Comelec en banc is expected to release the complete Calendar of Activities for the BSKE later this week, providing comprehensive guidance for candidates and voters alike. Garcia emphasized the certainty of the election schedule, stating "Surely, the BSKE will push through on November 2" as planned.
This revised projection represents nearly triple the initial estimate and reflects growing civic awareness among Filipinos, particularly among younger voters who will participate in both barangay and youth council elections. The increased numbers suggest heightened interest in local governance and community leadership positions across the country.
