The Third Party Monitoring Team (TPMT) has voiced concerns about the potential postponement of the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), scheduled for September 14, 2026. According to the group, any delay could undermine the region's democratic and peace processes.
The TPMT made these remarks during the launch of its ninth public report on the Bangsamoro peace process in Makati City. The group is tasked with monitoring the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
This election has already been postponed four times, with the latest change made by the Commission on Elections, which moved the date from March 31, 2026, citing operational and legal issues regarding the redistricting law.
Importance of Timely Elections
TPMT chairperson Heino Marius emphasized that further delays would erode public trust in the electoral system. He stated, "Four postponements are enough. The people of BARMM deserve their democratic right to choose their leaders."
“Any postponement of these elections will undermine confidence and the democratic process, and will undermine confidence in the peace process,”
Heino Marius, TPMT Chairperson
TPMT member Karen Tañada echoed this sentiment, stressing that repeated delays would only deepen skepticism among the residents. She highlighted the importance of public elections over appointments, stating, "For the past years, it’s been more appointments, and it’s not good somehow."
Potential Impacts on the Peace Agreement
The monitoring group also discussed the participation of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the official political party of the MILF, in the elections as crucial for the peace agreement's future. Marius noted that the UBJP's involvement might facilitate the effective implementation of the peace process.
However, the UBJP faces a disqualification petition regarding alleged violations of election laws. Marius remarked on the implications should the party be barred from participating, stating, "It would be a very big question mark."
The TPMT concluded by advocating for fair and credible elections, alongside comprehensive voter education efforts to safeguard democracy in the region.