President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called on residents of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to use the upcoming March elections as a platform to make their voices heard and to reinforce accountable, people-centered governance.
Speaking at the BARMM’s seventh founding anniversary in Cotabato City, Marcos said the polls should strengthen democracy and leadership that genuinely serves the people.
“It is our hope that the upcoming BARMM elections will serve as an opportunity for our Bangsamoro brothers and sisters to freely express their voices and aspirations,” the President said. “We aspire to further strengthen a leadership that truly serves the people— one that reinforces democracy and accountability.”
Marcos emphasized that future generations deserve governance rooted in participation and accountability, urging unity to preserve gains achieved through peace.
“My fellow Filipinos, we must stand as guardians of the progress that we have made through peace. Let us always choose unity and cooperation over division,” he said.
The President assured BARMM of continued national government support, highlighting the region’s institutional growth and deeper cooperation with Manila over the past seven years.
“My fellow Filipinos, we have come a long way. Still there is work to be done. Peace is a vital foundation for progress, it is our shared responsibility to harness peace to further develop the region,” Marcos said.
“So, let us continue to expand livelihood and economic opportunities in the BARMM. Let us raise the standard of living of every family in the region. And let us always prioritize the welfare of every Filipino.”
He added that the national government would remain a partner in BARMM’s development.
“As we pursue these goals, you can count on the national government to help you every step of the way,” Marcos said.
Jan. 21 marks Bangsamoro Foundation Day, commemorating the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law in 2019 that formally established BARMM.
This year’s celebration carried the theme, “BARMM 2026: Simbolo ng Pagkakaisa, Alaala sa mga Sakripisyo, at Pagpapatuloy ng Mas Matatag na Bangsamoro.”