Philippines Comelec warns of fake news regarding 2026 elections

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued an advisory warning the public against misinformation circulating on social media regarding the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

Specifically, the commission addressed a Facebook post claiming that the BSKE would proceed in 2026 and that the filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) would begin on October 26, 2026. Comelec clarified that these claims are false and that no such elections or COC filings will occur this year.

Following the signing of Republic Act No. 12326 by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the terms of barangay and SK officials were extended from four to five years, rescheduling the next BSKE to November 2028. Comelec stated that all preparations for the polls have been halted in accordance with this law. While petitions challenging the act have been filed with the Supreme Court, the commission noted that no order has been issued to stop its implementation.