The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has set the plebiscite on Naga City’s conversion into a highly urbanized city on November 2, 2026, to be held alongside the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.

In a minute resolution issued July 17, the Comelec en banc approved the request of Mayor Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo to synchronize the plebiscite with the village and youth polls, citing cost efficiency and higher voter turnout.

Robredo said the plebiscite was initially required within 120 days from the May 26 declaration but sought to avoid a separate exercise that would double expenses.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said holding the plebiscite together with the BSKE would cost an estimated P22 million to P25 million, significantly lower than the more than P50 million projected for a standalone vote.

He added that voter participation is also expected to improve, noting that plebiscites typically draw 30 to 40 percent turnout, while barangay and SK elections reach around 60 to 75 percent.

Only registered voters in Naga City will participate in the plebiscite, and it will not affect the rest of Camarines Sur province.

The plebiscite will ratify Proclamation No. 1267, the final step in formally declaring Naga City as a highly urbanized city.