House panel OKs 2 more years for village officials

MANILA, Philippines – Barangay (village) officials are one step closer to earning two additional years to their service with the passage of  a measure in the House of Representatives, granting them a five-year term in office.

The consolidated bill, changing the term of office of barangay officials from three years to five years, was approved by the House committee on local government.

The additional two years would mean that an official can serve for 15 years during the allowed three terms in office.

Committee chairman Negros Oriental Representative George Arnaiz said  the decision to extend the term of office of barangay officials was unanimous and the bill will be deliberated once the House of Representatives starts its third regular session.

The 15th Congress will go on sine die or recess on June 7.

If passed into law, the next barangay elections will be held  on the last Monday of October in 2015.