Lawmakers expressed optimism on Sunday, September 13, that the inaugural regular parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will be conducted in a peaceful, orderly, and credible manner.
Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri praised the upcoming polls, pointing out that the landmark democratic process is finally moving forward after being delayed four separate times.
“Finally, matutuloy na ang kauna-unahang BARMM parliamentary elections after four postponements!” Zubiri said.
“I welcome this historic moment with hope that the Bangsamoro people will finally be able to choose their leaders through a peaceful, orderly and credible democratic process,” he added.
Zubiri urged candidates, political parties, and voters to uphold democratic ideals and refrain from intimidation or violence. He also called on law enforcement and election officials to maintain neutrality and secure the voting process.
“Our security forces and election authorities must remain vigilant, impartial and focused on protecting every voter’s right to participate freely and safely,” Zubiri emphasized.
“Malayo na ang narating ng Bangsamoro peace process. Let us protect those gains by allowing the people to choose their leaders in peace, and by respecting the voice of the electorate once the votes are counted,” he added.
Echoing the call for peace, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan highlighted the significance of the election for a region shaped by decades of instability, while raising concern over recent reports of armed violence and heightened political friction ahead of the polls.
“This is a historic moment: representatives will be chosen following a long struggle for our Moro brothers and sisters to attain the opportunity to live with dignity, self-determination, and peace,” Pangilinan said.
“Nag-aalok ang halalang ito ng isang landas kung saan maririnig the tinig ng mamamayan hindi sa pamamagitan ng putok ng baril, kundi sa malaya at pantay na paggamit ng kanilang karapatan bilang mamamayan,” Pangilinan stressed.
Pangilinan appealed to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), security forces, local candidates, former combatants, and community leaders to safeguard the election’s integrity and prioritize stability over conflict.
“Sapat na ang dugong dumanak. Panahon nang matutong maghangad ang lupaing ito hindi ng mga armas, kundi ng mga araro, ng trabaho, ani, edukasyon, at kinabukasang para sa lahat,” he said.