DILG Sets Three-Week Transition Period for Newly-Elected Barangay and SK Officials
By: [Author’s Name]
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has announced a maximum of three weeks as a transition period for the newly elected barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials. This move aims to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities and resources from outgoing officials to their successors.
DILG Secretary Benjamin ‘Benhur’ Abalos Jr. emphasized the importance of the transition period, stating that it will determine whether the incoming officials can immediately start working or not. He highlighted the need to properly turnover barangay properties, including computers and cars, to the new officials.
To facilitate the transition process, Abalos unveiled the issuance of DILG Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2023-166. This circular serves as a guide for newly-elected SK and barangay officials before and during their assumption of office.
Meanwhile, outgoing barangay officials have been instructed to submit the final inventory of barangay and SK properties, financial records, documents, and properties (PFRDs), as well as money accountabilities. They are also tasked with ensuring a smooth turnover to the incoming officials.
“We do not want any chaos. I am reiterating this announcement since this will cover all the barangay and SK in the Philippines. After taking your oath of office, coordinate with the DILG office on the ground, and we gave them instructions to have a proper turnover,” emphasized Abalos.
The decision to implement these guidelines stems from the advice of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), which stated that winning barangay and SK election candidates can assume office immediately after being proclaimed and taking their oath.
“We in the DILG will follow the Comelec policy. We might encounter problems on the ground,” Abalos explained, highlighting the need to align with Comelec’s guidance to avoid any potential issues during the transition period.
With the three-week transition period and the issuance of guidelines, the DILG aims to ensure a smooth and efficient transition for newly-elected barangay and SK officials, enabling them to effectively carry out their duties and responsibilities.
