Barangay Chairman Jaime Frias of Barangay 23, Cagayan de Oro City strongly criticized proposals to prioritize Civil Service eligibility for candidates running in Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, describing it as an unconstitutional restriction.
The captain clarified that current laws state that basic literacy—being able to read and write—grants any citizen the right to run for public office and serve their community.
Frias added that numerous effective local officials since 2011 have demonstrated exemplary public service through practical experience and governance training rather than standardized tests.
The official further noted that academic requirements do not address grass-roots community needs, emphasizing that even licensed lawyers face steep learning curves in handling local barangay affairs
