Senator Imee Marcos expressed support on Sunday, April 19, for the government’s proposal to delay the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), citing the need to prioritize national funds during the ongoing energy crisis.
Marcos said postponing the polls would be beneficial as the Philippines continues to grapple with the economic impacts of rising oil prices. She stressed that the move would allow the government to redirect billions of pesos toward more urgent public needs.
According to the senator, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) previously estimated that holding the nationwide elections would cost around ₱16 billion.
“At a time when the country is confronted with serious economic challenges brought about by the oil crisis, prudence demands that we prioritize the allocation of limited public resources,” Marcos said.
“This sum can be more urgently directed toward addressing the immediate needs of our people, including rising fuel costs, food security, and essential public services.”
Beyond financial considerations, Marcos argued that retaining current local officials would ensure better governance during the crisis.
“Equally important, postponement will allow our local officials to remain fully focused on governance and crisis response, rather than being drawn into the distractions of electoral politics,” she said.
“In times such as these, continuity of leadership at the grassroots level can help ensure stability and more efficient delivery of public services.”
Her remarks followed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s statement that he is open to rescheduling the elections—originally set for November 2, 2026—to save funds amid the prevailing Middle East crisis.