The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) began its first parliamentary election period and gun ban on Thursday, July 16, according to official reports. Comelec Chairman George Garcia confirmed the rollout of checkpoints across three cities and 105 municipalities to enforce the ban as the region prepares for its September 14 polls.
Did You Know? The Comelec is printing 2.39 million ballots for the election, with each precinct designed to host 600 voters.
Security Measures and Political Appointments
He previously affirmed on June 9 that there is “no doubt” the elections will proceed.
The process received a signal of stability through Malacañang’s appointment of Presidential Peace Adviser Mel Senen Sarmiento as chief of the Government Peace Implementing Panel. This appointment occurred just one day before the election period began.
These polls were previously delayed by the pandemic and the exit of Sulu from the region. According to official context, the successful execution of these elections is essential for completing the Bangsamoro peace process.
Voter Education and Parliamentary Challenges
Election watchdogs are prioritizing voter education to address gaps in understanding the parliamentary system. NAMFREL chair Angel “Lito” Averia Jr. stated on the program Aksyon Alerto that monitors act as a “force multiplier” to ensure Comelec compliance.
Averia noted that more education sessions are scheduled for August because some areas still struggle to understand how the parliamentary system works. Ona Caritos, executive director of LENTE Philippines, added that updates to the Bangsamoro Electoral Code earlier this year have created a “big challenge.”
Caritos explained that her organization must now adjust materials and return to previously visited communities to communicate these specific code updates.
Expert Insight: The transition to a parliamentary system represents a significant shift in governance for the region.
Candidates and the September 14 Timeline
Thirteen regional political parties will compete for seats in the 80-member parliament. Key contenders include the Bangsamoro Federalist Party and the United Bangsamoro Justice Party, which is the party of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
Interim chief minister Abdulraof Macacua is seeking a seat in the 3rd parliamentary district of Maguindanao del Norte as an independent candidate. Once the 80 parliamentarians are elected on September 14, they will be responsible for selecting the next chief minister.
The election timeline is as follows:
- July 16: Start of election period and gun ban
- July 30: Campaign period begins
- September 4-14: Absolute ban on public fund releases (except for burial or medical assistance)
- September 12: Final testing and sealing
- September 13: Liquor ban and campaign prohibition
- September 14: Election Day
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the BARMM election day?
The election day is scheduled for September 14.
How many people will be in the BARMM parliament?
Voters will elect members for an 80-member parliament.
Who selects the chief minister in this system?
The elected parliamentarians will select the next chief minister.
How do you think the shift to a parliamentary system will affect regional governance?
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