Vice President Sara Duterte called on political candidates, partisan groups, electoral stakeholders, and citizens to unite in safeguarding the integrity of the inaugural parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
In an official statement issued by the Office of the Vice President on Monday, September 14, Duterte highlighted the regional polls as a landmark milestone in achieving self-determination, enduring stability, and equitable progress for the Bangsamoro population.
“Ang unang halalan sa BARMM ay isang makasaysayang hakbang tungo sa sariling pamamahala, kapayapaan, at inklusibong pag-unlad ng mga Bangsamoro,” she said.
Addressing political figures and participating organizations, the Vice President stressed the importance of protecting the fairness and open nature of the vote.
“Panawagan natin sa lahat ng kandidato, partido, at stakeholder na panatilihin ang isang mapayapa, maaasahan, at transparent na proseso ng halalan,” she added.
Duterte likewise called on regional voters to participate thoughtfully at the polls by entrusting their votes to leaders dedicated to ethical leadership and the community’s welfare.
“Hinihikayat namin ang mga mamamayan ng BARMM na gamitin nang responsable ang kanilang karapatang bumoto at pumili ng mga lider na tunay na maglilingkod para sa mabuting pamamahala at kapakanan ng Bangsamoro,” Duterte said.
Expressing optimism for the region’s future, she noted that the historic electoral process presents a vital opportunity to bolster democratic foundations and unity across the region.
“Nawa’y higit pang mapatatag ng halalang ito ang demokrasya, kapayapaan, at pagkakaisa sa rehiyon,” she said.
The Vice President’s message coincides with the rollout of BARMM’s pioneering elections, marking a crucial step forward in the region’s transition toward full autonomous governance.