SEN. Bong Go on Tuesday condemned a series of reported armed attacks and confrontations in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), allegedly linked to the region’s first parliamentary elections, and called for accountability and an orderly canvassing of votes.
In a statement issued on Sept. 15, Go expressed condolences to the families of those killed and injured in the violence, stressing that the incidents should not undermine the Bangsamoro people’s decadeslong struggle for peace and self-determination.
“I strongly condemn the series of violent incidents that transpired today in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” Go said.
“These reported armed attacks and confrontations are reportedly linked to the ongoing regional parliamentary elections,” he added.
Go called for justice and urged authorities to hold those responsible accountable.
He also appealed to the Commission on Elections to protect the integrity of election returns and ensure the safety of election personnel as the vote-counting process continues.
“I pray that the results of this election truly reflect the will of the region’s voters,” Go said.
The senator described the parliamentary elections as a test of the region’s political maturity and its commitment to genuine and lasting peace after decades of conflict.
“We have come a long way after decades of war and the struggle for the Bangsamoro’s right to self-determination,” he said, noting that previous generations of Bangsamoro Muslims had sacrificed their lives and freedom in pursuit of these aspirations.
The BARMM parliamentary elections mark a significant step in the region’s transition from armed conflict to autonomous democratic governance.
Go urged all stakeholders to uphold peace, unity and democratic principles throughout the remaining stages of the electoral process.
