The Model Sangguniang Kabataan Network (MSK) clarified on Friday that incumbent Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials remain eligible to run in the December 2026 elections, citing guidance from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Law Department.

In a statement released to address online confusion, MSK revealed that the COMELEC Law Department, in a response dated January 13, 2026, emphasized that the three-term limit disqualification applies specifically to incumbent barangay officials.

According to the network, the disqualification does not automatically bar current SK leaders from seeking reelection, provided they meet all legal qualifications and possess no other grounds for disqualification.

New Rules Under RA 12232

The clarification also highlighted the impact of Republic Act No. 12232, which sets new parameters for the upcoming polls:

• Term Length: Officials elected in 2026 will serve a four-year term.

• Term Limit: Under the new law, SK officials will be restricted to serving only one term in the same position.

MSK acknowledged that the Law Department’s opinion is for guidance only and is not yet a binding ruling from the COMELEC En Banc. However, the youth network maintained that the clarification is vital to curbing misinformation.

"MSK remains committed to promoting informed, responsible, and law-based participation of the youth in governance," the group stated, urging candidates to remain grounded in the truth of existing election laws.