TWO elections, the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (village and youth council) and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) polls, are set to happen this year. History is being written in the BARMM, for after years of transition and peace-building, the region is set to hold its first regular parliamentary elections on Sept. 14, 2026.
This milestone marks the official end of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and ushers in a fully elected government chosen directly by the people.
A total of 80 seats in the region’s parliament are contested. These include representatives from political parties, single-member districts and sectoral representatives.
The winning officials will assume office on Oct. 30, 2026, and serve until June 11, 2031. After this year’s elections, polls will be held every three years on the second Monday of May, synchronizing with the national electoral calendar.
As the Commission on Elections (Comelec) finalizes preparations, here is the timeline every voter must watch: filing of certificates of candidacy, May 5 to 7, 2026; campaign period, July 30 to Sept. 12, 2026; mandatory campaign silence: Sept. 13, 2026; Election Day, Sept. 14, 2026; and deadline for the submission of statements of contributions and expenditures: Oct. 14, 2026.
The race is expected to be highly competitive, with more than 10 political parties officially accredited and running to secure parliamentary seats.
Several groups applying for accreditation as regional parliamentary political parties have been approved by the Comelec, clearing the way for their participation in September’s Bangsamoro parliamentary elections.
In separate resolutions, the Comelec en banc approved the petitions of the Bangsamoro Party, Alliance of Bangsamoro Tri-Peoples Party, Bangsamoro People’s Democratic Party, Best Party, Progresibong Bangsamoro Party, Bangsamoro People’s Party, Bangsamoro Federalist Party, BARMM Grand Coalition, Moro Ako Party, and Indigenous Settlers Sama and Minorities Alliance Party.
Just a day ago, the United Bangsamoro Justice Party, which is affiliated with the former rebel organization Moro Islamic Liberation Front, was approved. It advocates for Sharia-aligned governance, social justice and equitable development across the region.
Each party brings distinct platforms ranging from the full implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, economic development and cultural preservation to social justice and women empowerment.
To ensure credibility and speed, the Comelec will utilize the same automated election system used during the 2025 midterm polls.
We urge the Comelec to allocate funds for voters’ education and for airtime. Media support is crucial so that coverage is ensured.
Security forces are already coordinating with local leaders to guarantee a safe and peaceful exercise.
This election is more than just choosing leaders; it is about solidifying the peace process and defining the future of the Bangsamoro identity.
