Barmm officials welcome Marcos' signing of law resetting election

MANILA, Philippines—Key officials in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm) on Thursday expressed optimism following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signing of a law rescheduling the region’s first parliamentary elections to September 2026. Republic Act (RA) 12317, signed by the President on Wednesday, amends the Bangsamoro Organic Law, moving the historic vote from its original 2025 schedule to the second Monday of September this year. Maguindanao Rep. Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu called the postponement a "blessing" that provides essential breathing room for the democratic process. “There is still time for candidates to prepare and for people, especially the youth who have just become eligible, to register before the September deadline,” Mangudadatu said. “We hope the elections will be peaceful and that all elected officials will remain committed to serving the people," he added. Acting Senior Minister Abdullah Cusain assured the public that preparations were underway to ensure credible and orderly election. “The Office of the Chief Minister will ensure that the process will be credible, peaceful, transparent, and with integrity,” Cusain said. “Our preparations have been continuous. Even when the election was rescheduled, we maintained coordination with the Commission on Elections, especially at the regional level,” he added. The move also drew support from the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the political arm of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. UBJP spokesman Mohajirin Ali said the new date provided "renewed momentum" for a transition they have advocated for since last year. “This is something we have been pushing for since last year. We were ready when elections were initially set, even when they were moved to October,” Ali said. Barmm officials are hopeful that the rescheduled election will pave the way for stronger governance, inclusive leadership and lasting peace.

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