The first regular parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have been rescheduled to September 14, 2026, following the signing of Republic Act 12317 by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday, March 25.
The measure amends Republic Act 11054, the Organic Law for BARMM.
The law specifies that to synchronize BARMM’s parliamentary elections with national and local polls, regular elections for the Bangsamoro Government will be held on the second Monday of May 2031 and every three years thereafter.
During the extended transition period, the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) will continue to serve as the interim government unless members are replaced by the President or elected to other offices.
“The interim members of the BTA shall serve until their successors shall have been elected and qualified in an automated election,” the law states.
Officials elected in 2026 will begin their term at noon on October 30, 2026, ending at noon on June 30, 2031. Starting in 2031, elected officials will assume office at noon on June 30 following their election. The Parliament will convene its regular session immediately after officials take office.
The automated election system used in May 2025 will again be employed, including machines, devices, supplies, and service providers.
A new filing period for certificates of candidacy and party nominations will be set, requiring those filed from November 4–9, 2024 to be refiled. Substitution of candidates will only be allowed in cases of death or disqualification under COMELEC rules.
All qualified voters registered in BARMM precincts will be entitled to vote. Funding will come from COMELEC appropriations, with BARMM allowed to provide additional support from its local funds.
Earlier this month, the Bangsamoro Government welcomed the Senate’s passage of the measure, calling it a “crucial step toward the region’s full democratic transition.”