Election lawyer seeks TRO vs law moving barangay, SK polls to 2028
Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal has filed a petition with the Supreme Court to challenge the constitutionality of a law postponing the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections to 2028. He argues that the repeated delays infringe upon the electorate's right to suffrage and constitute a grave abuse of discretion by Congress.
Why it matters
This case addresses the balance of power between the legislature and the constitutional right of citizens to participate in local governance through regular elections.
MANILA, Philippines - Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal asked the Supreme Court to strike down the law postponing the November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections to November 2028.
Macalintal filed a petition for certiorari and prohibition on Monday, September 28 challenging the constitutionality of Republic Act 12326, naming the Office of the President, Senate, House of Representatives and Commission on Elections as respondents.
He also sought an immediate status quo ante order, temporary restraining order and writ of preliminary injunction to halt the law's implementation.
"I thought 'forever' was only in love. Turns out 'forever' also exists in barangay election postponements," Macalintal told reporters in Filipino at the Supreme Court grounds.
"That is why we will fight this, because this postponement is far too long. And our right to vote was taken away from us by our lawmakers," he added.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in