President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has certified as urgent a bill seeking to defer the first general elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), originally scheduled for May 12, 2025. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to ensuring a well-prepared and effective transition for the Bangsamoro people.
The proposed postponement aligns with the formal request from the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), which has governed the region since its establishment. The BTA has cited the need for additional time to complete crucial tasks necessary for a fully functioning, democratically elected BARMM government. These include passing key legislation, building institutions, and implementing systems to support self-governance.
In October 2024, the BTA passed Resolution No. 641, requesting an extension of the transition period until 2028. This extension aims to provide the BTA with adequate time to address governance, electoral, and administrative issues, ensuring a stable and effective transition.
Legislative Support for Postponement
The legislative branch has demonstrated its backing for the initiative. In the House of Representatives, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, along with other lawmakers, filed House Bill No. 11034, which proposes moving the BARMM elections from May 12, 2025, to May 11, 2026. Speaker Romualdez emphasized that the postponement reflects a shared commitment to ensuring a smooth and effective transition, aligning with the BTA’s request.
Meanwhile, in the Senate, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero introduced Senate Bill No. 2862, which also seeks to delay the BARMM parliamentary elections to May 11, 2026. Escudero highlighted the recent Supreme Court ruling declaring the inclusion of Sulu in the BARMM unconstitutional as a key factor requiring the postponement. The decision necessitates adjustments in parliamentary seat allocations and regional jurisdictions.
Challenges in Election Preparation
The Supreme Court’s ruling has further complicated preparations for the 2025 elections. With Sulu’s exclusion from BARMM, recalibrating the allocation of parliamentary district seats is necessary to ensure balanced representation, as mandated by the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL). The BTA has warned that holding elections in 2025 without addressing these issues could result in operational and representational gaps, potentially undermining governance and stability.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has acknowledged these challenges. While Comelec has begun preparations for the 2025 BARMM parliamentary elections, including the filing of certificates of candidacy, it recognizes the need for legislative action to address emerging legal and administrative issues. Comelec Chairman George Garcia stated that the commission will continue its preparations but will defer to the legislature’s decision on the postponement.
Ensuring a Strong Foundation for BARMM Governance
The proposed postponement is not merely a delay but a strategic move to establish a strong foundation for BARMM’s governance. It reflects the commitment of both the executive and legislative branches to fostering a peaceful, inclusive, and resilient Bangsamoro. The additional time will enable the BTA to work closely with stakeholders to enhance electoral readiness and voter education, ensuring that the Bangsamoro people can fully participate in a democratic process that genuinely represents their will.
As the legislative process advances, the focus remains on addressing the unique challenges faced by BARMM while upholding its autonomy and ensuring the highest standards of governance in the Philippines. The postponement aims to facilitate a smoother transition, allowing the region to build a mature and stable government capable of effectively serving its constituents.