Lawyer to oppose longer terms for barangay execs
Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal plans to challenge a Senate bill that proposes extending the terms of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials to five years. He argues that the bill is unconstitutional and undermines the electoral process.
Why it matters
The debate highlights ongoing tensions regarding local government term limits and the authority of Congress to postpone elections.
MANILA, Philippines - Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal is ready to oppose a Senate bill seeking to extend the term of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials to five years and reset the elections to November 2028.
In a radio interview, Macalintal said he is even turning to the Supreme Court for help to stop the passage of Senate Bill 2387, which seeks to amend Republic Act 12232 or "An Act Setting the Term of Office of Barangay Officials and Members of the Sangguniang Kabataan, and for Other Purposes."
"In fact, I am already preparing in my law office the draft of the petition (with the SC) so that the only last thing needed would be the Republic Act number - once the bill is passed and signed by President Marcos Jr.," Macalintal said.
He is still hoping the President would study the bill carefully before making a decision.
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