COMELEC requires Birth Certificates for filing of SK COCs
By: Nonnette C. Bennett
Manila, Philippines – Birth certificates will be required for all Sanggunian Kabataan (SK) candidates running in the November 2, 2026 Barangay and SK elections.
This directive was announced in a memorandum issued on April 28, 2026 by Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia. He explained that the measure addresses more than 7,000 cases recorded during the 2018 and 2023 elections involving candidates who were already over 24 years old at the time of filing their Certificates of Candidacy (COC).
Garcia emphasized that the birth certificate requirement will serve as proof of a candidate’s date of birth and citizenship, ensuring that all information in the forms submitted is accurate. He added that the policy aims to preserve the integrity, order, and respect in the conduct of elections. Moreover, it safeguards the sanctity of the electorate’s trust and vote by guaranteeing that winning candidates are duly qualified for public office and fit to lead.
