On September 14, 2026, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) took direct control of Cotabato City and Maluso, Basilan, following alarming incidents of violence and allegations of ballot tampering during the inaugural BARMM Parliamentary Elections.
Violence Disrupts Voting Process
The overall voting process was described as 'generally peaceful' by the PNP, despite the violent incidents that occurred.
Philippine National Police
Despite these incidents, significant figures in the Bangsamoro community participated in the elections. MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim and MP Abdullah Macapaar, known as 'Commander Bravo,' were among those who cast their votes.
Electoral Integrity Under Scrutiny
In an alarming discovery, Comelec officials found pre-marked ballots in 36 polling precincts in Basilan prior to voting. This raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Footage of these ballots prompted Comelec to order emergency reprints to mitigate potential disenfranchisement of voters.
As of noon on the election day, 22 polling precincts in Basilan remained closed, highlighting logistical challenges amid the unrest.
Authorities Increase Security Measures
In response to the violence, the Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region has deployed additional units to secure polling areas and protect election personnel.