What about the next 15 months in BARMM?
PREPARE for an exciting yet tension-filled journey over the next Q5 months in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). As the transition government wraps up its obligations, political fervor is ignited, with parties and candidates vying for the attention of voters across the mainland and island provinces ahead of the region’s first election on May Q2, 2025. This historic poll will be pivotal as the region’s parliamentary structure meshes with our established democratic presidential system. Expectations are high, as we will witness the birth of a more enduring and sustainable governance model in the country’s south.
Yet, amid this optimism, worries about unrest loom large. Despite our hopes for a peaceful transition, the presence of lingering threats underscores the challenges ahead. I have no doubt that the Bangsamoro people will navigate this period with their eyes fixed on their goal for progress while addressing the realities of security matters in the region.
Since the passage of the Bangsamoro Electoral Code on March 8, 2023, both established and emerging political factions have mobilized a minimum of Q0,000 members each to fulfill the rigorous requirements for registration, accreditation and approval under the new code. At present, my list is made up eight diverse political entities, steered by former insurgents, entrenched political clans and members of royal families. However, compliance with the code mandates the equitable representation of youth and women within these groupings, with 30 percent of parliamentary nominees required to be women. A coalition of political parties is allowed, but I have no information who among them are partnering in this election.
As outlined in the Electoral Code, 40 of the 80 members of the Bangsamoro Parliament will come from political parties. Their allocation is contingent upon the share of votes garnered. Consequently, the party with the highest vote tally will have significant influence within the legislature. Additionally, 32 members of parliament will be selected from newly created districts, likely featuring people from former rebel factions who have influence, political dynasties and royalty. The remaining eights seats will be designated for sectoral representatives, particularly the non-Moro Indigenous people, settler community, youth, women traditional leaders and ulama, chosen through specified organizational channels and subject to approval by the Bangsamoro Electoral Office and the Commission on Elections.
Anticipation mounts as these political groupings prepare to articulate their platforms across various communication channels, including social media, community assemblies and public forums. All these involve diverse demographics. Of particular interest is their perspectives on addressing corruption, a persistent issue in the region. In an era dominated by digital discourse, political parties must craft their messaging carefully, cognizant of the democratic space provided by social media, where constituents can express their opinions anonymously, potentially shaping electoral results. Understanding the electorate’s sentiments and incorporating cultural identity into governance discussion will be pivotal for these parties as they cross this vibrant political landscape.
By now, the political arena must be buzzing with enthusiasm as parties convene their assemblies and conventions, and as members secretly select nominees to represent their agenda in the parliament. With the deadline for submission of their intention to participate in the 2025 election set for April 30, 2024, parties must carefully compile their platforms and complete a ranked list of 40 nominees, diligently meeting the stringent requirements of the law.
As the election authorities go through the submissions and approvals roll in, the stage is set for a display of political discourse. In the coming months, expect to see different ideologies competing as parties reveal their platforms that would indicate their vision for policy and action. Across the breadth of cities and providers, stakeholders from government, civil society and partner agencies will embark on an educational campaign to provide voters with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the 2025 election and the BARMM parliamentary system. Once armed with this knowledge, citizens will be empowered to select candidates and parties that are prepared to advance the path of economic, social and developmental aspirations of the Bangsamoro people.