PHILIPPINE ELECTIONS

Comelec Releases Calendar of Activities for 2025 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE)

June 5, 2025
Apple Majait

2025 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections

COMELEC BSKE Calendar Of Activities Photo/File
COMELEC BSKE Calendar Of Activities Photo/File

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced the official calendar of activities for the 2025 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), setting the stage for a crucial democratic process. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the key dates and activities, ensuring voters and candidates are well-informed throughout the electoral journey.

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The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has officially released the calendar of activities for the 2025 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), scheduled to take place in December.

According to Comelec Resolution No. 11132, Election Day is set for Monday, December 1, 2025. Registered voters can cast their ballots from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the counting and canvassing of votes, as well as the proclamation of winning candidates, commencing immediately after the polls close.

The period for voter registration and applications for membership to the Katipunan ng Kabataan (KK) is scheduled from July 1 to July 11, 2025. This window allows eligible individuals to ensure their participation in the upcoming elections.

The last day to file opposition to voter registration and KK membership applications will be on July 21, 2025, giving concerned parties ample time to raise objections if necessary.

Comelec Chairperson and election officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring a smooth, transparent, and efficient election process. The comprehensive schedule outlined in Resolution No. 11132 is part of the poll body’s efforts to enhance voter participation and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

The Comelec’s calendar reflects a carefully planned process designed to ensure free, fair, and credible elections. Understanding each stage is crucial for both voters and candidates. Active participation and awareness of deadlines are key to a successful electoral process. Remember to check the Comelec website for official updates and announcements. Your voice matters! Let’s make this BSKE a resounding success.

 Dates and Deadlines: A Month-by-Month Overview

DateActivity
July 1-11, 2025Voter registration and Katipunan ng Kabataan (KK) membership applications open.
July 21, 2025Deadline for filing oppositions to voter registration and KK membership applications.
July 25, 2025Last day to inspect voting centers/polling places.
July 28, 2025Approval or disapproval of voter registration and KK membership applications.
August 8, 2025Deadline for filing requests for transfer/change/correction of name/address of voting centers/polling precincts.
August 18, 2025Last day to file petitions for the inclusion of voters.
August 25 – September 15, 2025Onsite project of precincts (POPs) verification.
August 26, 2025Last day to file petitions for the exclusion of voters.
August 28, 2025Deadline for Election Registration Boards (ERBs), citizen arms, and civic organizations to verify, certify, and seal the voter list. Final ERB meeting to certify the voter list and approve the abatement process in the Voter Registration System (VRS) database.
September 2, 2025Last day for posting of the certified and final computerized voters’ list.
October 1-7, 2025Filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COCs).
October 6, 2025Deadline for submission of POPs to the Comelec en banc.
November 20-29, 2025Campaign period.
November 30, 2025Eve of Election Day.
December 1, 2025Election Day (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Counting, canvassing, and proclamation of winners will immediately follow.
December 31, 2025Last day for filing Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs).

October 27 to December 31: Election period. This encompasses the entire electoral process, from the filing of COCs to the submission of SOCEs.

The Philippines’ Election 2025: A Comprehensive Guide to Prohibited Acts

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has outlined a strict set of rules and regulations to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in the Philippines leading up to Election Day 2025. These regulations, primarily detailed in Comelec Resolution No. 11132, prohibit a wide range of activities designed to prevent vote manipulation, undue influence, and the disruption of the electoral process. Understanding these prohibited acts is crucial for both candidates and voters alike.

Pre-Election Period (October 17, 2025 – December 1, 2025):

This period, beginning with the filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) in October, sees the implementation of several key restrictions:

  • Illegal Campaigning: Vote-buying, vote-selling, and premature campaigning are strictly prohibited. These actions undermine the democratic process by influencing voters through bribery or intimidation.
  • Government Hiring Freeze: A ban on the appointment or hiring of new positions in government offices, instrumentalities, and government-owned or controlled corporations is in effect. Exceptions require prior authorization from the Comelec, preventing the misuse of public resources for political advantage.
  • Spending Ban: A strict spending limit is imposed on candidates and their campaigns. This measure aims to level the playing field and prevent candidates with greater financial resources from dominating the election.

Election Period (October 27, 2025 – December 31, 2025):

The election period witnesses a significant escalation in restrictions, including:

  • Gun Ban: The possession and carrying of firearms are strictly prohibited, aiming to reduce the risk of violence and intimidation during the election.
  • Security Personnel Restrictions: Candidates are generally prohibited from using personal security personnel or bodyguards, except under specific exemptions granted by the Comelec. This measure aims to prevent the use of private security forces to influence voters.
  • Precinct Alterations: Any alteration of the territory of a precinct or the establishment of new precincts is strictly prohibited. This prevents gerrymandering and ensures fair representation.
  • Fundraising Restrictions: Raising funds through activities such as dances, lotteries, and cockfights is prohibited. This measure aims to prevent the use of potentially exploitative methods to finance campaigns.
  • Election Wagering: Wagering on the results of the election is illegal, preventing the creation of financial incentives that could manipulate the outcome.
  • Civil Service Transfers: The transfer or detailing of officers and employees in the civil service, including public school teachers, is banned. This prevents the manipulation of public resources to favor certain candidates.
  • Intimidation of Election Officials: Coercing, threatening, intimidating, or terrorizing any election official or employee is a serious offense. This measure safeguards the integrity of the electoral process.
  • Illegal Prisoner Releases: The illegal release of prisoners before or after the election is strictly prohibited. This prevents the manipulation of the electorate through the release of convicted individuals.
  • Prohibited Forces: The organization or maintenance of reaction forces, strike forces, or similar forces is prohibited. This prevents the use of paramilitary groups to influence the election.
  • Suspension of Local Officials: The suspension of local elective officials is prohibited, preventing the removal of officials who might oppose a particular candidate.
  • Campaign Material Tampering: Removing or destroying legal election paraphernalia is prohibited. This measure ensures the integrity of campaign materials and the fairness of the electoral process. Similarly, posting or distributing illegal campaign materials is also prohibited.
  • Donations and Gifts: Making donations or gifts in cash or kind is prohibited. This prevents the bribery of voters and ensures a level playing field.
  • Unauthorized Personnel: Appointing or using special policemen, or using armored land, water, or aircraft is prohibited. This prevents the misuse of state resources and the intimidation of voters.
  • Road Construction Ban: Construction or maintenance of barangay-funded roads and bridges is barred during a specific period (November 21-30). This aims to prevent the use of public works projects for political gain.

Election Day (December 31, 2025):

Election Day sees the strictest set of prohibitions, including:

  • Liquor Ban: A nationwide liquor ban is in effect.
  • Campaign Activity Ban: All campaign activities are prohibited.
  • Freebies Ban: Giving and accepting free transportation, food, drinks, or items of value is prohibited.
  • Voter Affidavit Misuse: Using another person’s voter’s affidavit to vote is a serious offense.
  • Multiple Voting: Voting more than once is strictly prohibited.
  • Campaign Material Tampering: Destroying or substituting lawful campaign materials is prohibited.
  • Soliciting Votes Near Polling Places: Soliciting votes or undertaking any propaganda against a candidate within 30 meters of the polling place is prohibited.
  • Prohibited Stalls Near Polling Places: Opening stalls for wares, merchandise, and refreshments within 30 meters of the polling place is prohibited.
  • Prohibited Events Near Polling Places: Holding fairs, boxing matches, horse races, and other similar sports on Election Day is prohibited.

The Comelec’s comprehensive regulations aim to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. Understanding these prohibitions is vital for all stakeholders to contribute to a successful and credible election. Violation of these rules can result in severe penalties, highlighting the importance of compliance.

Comelec to Include BARMM in Nationwide Voter Registration for BSKE

Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will conduct voter registration activities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), Chairperson George Garcia announced on Wednesday. This decision aims to prevent disenfranchisement of BARMM residents, particularly those aged 15 to 17, who are eligible to vote in the SK elections.

Initially excluded from the nationwide voter registration due to the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) scheduled for October 13th, BARMM’s inclusion is a significant development. Garcia explained the rationale behind the decision in an interview, stating, “We have realized that if we don’t conduct voter registration in the BARMM, we would effectively disenfranchise them. We want to allow 15 to 17-year-olds to register and vote in the SK elections. Otherwise, our SK voters may only be those 18 years old and above.”

The nationwide voter registration for the BSKE, set for December 1, 2025, as per Comelec Resolution No. 11132, will run from July 1st to 11th. However, Garcia clarified that the inclusion of BARMM remains contingent upon the Comelec en banc’s approval. This crucial step underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to the electoral process across all regions of the Philippines.

The decision to include BARMM, while seemingly straightforward, presents a logistical challenge given the proximity to the BPE. Garcia emphasized that new registrants during the July 1st to 11th registration period will not be permitted to vote in the upcoming BPE. He clarified, “As the law provides, the voters in the May 12 midterm polls must be the only ones that can vote in the October 13 BPE. Therefore, those who will get registered from July 1 to 11 in BARMM will still be unable to vote in the BPE.”

This careful balancing act between facilitating voter registration for the BSKE and upholding the integrity of the BPE highlights the complexities of electoral processes in a diverse and geographically dispersed nation like the Philippines. The Comelec’s decision underscores its commitment to inclusivity while navigating the practical constraints of overlapping election schedules. The upcoming en banc decision will be closely watched, as it will determine the fate of thousands of young voters in BARMM and their ability to participate in the upcoming SK elections. The move also reflects the Comelec’s ongoing efforts to ensure that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote, regardless of geographical location or political context. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining the final implementation of this significant decision. The Comelec will likely release further details regarding registration centers and procedures in BARMM in the coming days.

Comelec Stands Firm: No Extension for SOCE Filing Deadline

Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a firm warning: the June 11 deadline for the filing of Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs) by candidates in the May 12 midterm elections will not be extended. Comelec Chairperson George Garcia declared in a Tuesday interview, “There is no extension. We do not plan to give an extension to anyone who asks. That is the deadline, June 11.”

Garcia emphasized that the deadline was announced well in advance, leaving candidates ample time to comply. He stressed the seriousness of the matter, stating, “Therefore, you have to face the consequences of non-filing of SOCE.” The consequences, he warned, are severe.

Candidates are required to submit their SOCEs in person at the Comelec — Political Finance and Affairs Department in Intramuros, Manila, during weekdays and Saturdays, including holidays, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The submission must include the prescribed number of hard copies, along with electronic copies in PDF and Excel formats. The Comelec explicitly rejects filings via mail, email, courier, or messenger services.

The stakes are high. Failure to submit the SOCE will bar candidates from assuming office and could result in administrative charges. Conversely, compliant candidates will receive a Certificate of Formal Compliance, a necessary document for assuming their elected positions.

This unwavering stance by the Comelec underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in Philippine elections. The commission’s clear message serves as a stark reminder to all candidates of their obligations under the law. The deadline looms, and the consequences of non-compliance are substantial.

Comelec Resolution No. 11132

Other Articles:

This portion presents a list of all available COMELEC Resolutions in this website related to Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.