The long-delayed elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao are now set to move forward after the Senate ratified the bicameral conference committee report resetting the polls to September 2026.
The move sets a clear timeline for the first parliamentary elections in the region, where voters will choose their own leaders under the Bangsamoro government. For years, the region has been run by an appointed transition authority while systems were being put in place. The upcoming elections will mark the shift to leaders elected directly by the people.
Senate Majority Leader Senator Migz Zubiri said the development moves the region closer to completing that transition.
“After years and years of delays, here it is, finally, it will happen,” Zubiri said.
The reset comes after earlier postponements meant to give the Bangsamoro Transition Authority more time to organize governance structures under the Bangsamoro Organic Law. These include setting up institutions, defining districts, and preparing the region for a full electoral process.
For residents in BARMM, the elections mean they will finally have the chance to vote for their representatives instead of relying on appointed officials. This is expected to strengthen accountability, since elected leaders answer directly to voters.
“The Bangsamoro people’s right to choose their own leaders” is at the core of the measure, Zubiri said.
The timing of the development also carries symbolic weight, as it comes ahead of Eid’l Fitr, a major religious holiday in Muslim communities.
“As Eid’l Fitr approaches, I hope this stands as a meaningful gift to our brothers and sisters in the BARMM,” he added.
With the Senate’s approval, the measure now moves closer to full enactment. Once finalized, preparations will focus on carrying out the elections as scheduled, marking a key step in the region’s political transition and long-term governance.
