LIVE UPDATES: First BARMM parliamentary elections

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is set to hold its first parliamentary elections on September 14, 2026, marking a historic milestone in the region's long-standing quest for self-governance. The polls, which have been delayed multiple times since their initial announcement, will determine the composition of the region’s legislative body, known as the Regional Legislative Assembly. The elections come nearly two decades after the signing of the 2014 Bangsamoro Organic Law, which laid the foundation for the autonomous region. Despite repeated postponements, first in May 2022, then in May 2025, October 2025, and March 2026, the event remains a critical juncture in the ongoing peace process that has sought to resolve decades of conflict in Mindanao. The election process involves voters selecting both a regional political party and a district representative. Unlike traditional presidential or congressional races, the BARMM electorate does not directly elect the chief minister. Instead, the elected parliament will choose the head of government through an internal selection process. The Regional Legislative Assembly will consist of 80 members, divided into three categories: 40 representing political parties, 32 serving as district representatives, and eight designated for sectoral representation. This structure aims to ensure broad participation while balancing the interests of different community groups. The campaign period has seen heightened activity, particularly in the weeks leading up to the elections. On August 27, 2026, thirteen political parties engaged in the first-ever parliamentary debate hosted by the Institute for Autonomy and Governance at Notre Dame University in Cotabato City. The discussion covered key issues such as socioeconomic reforms, service decentralization, and addressing clan-based conflicts, known locally as rido. Candidates also addressed concerns regarding the exclusion of Sulu from the BARMM jurisdiction, electoral transparency, and the potential influence of the national government on regional affairs. The debate concluded with party-list groups pledging their support for civil society initiatives, including commitments to organizations like Duyog Bangsamoro and the Coalition for Social Accountability and Transparency. However, not all political entities have been permitted to participate. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) recently affirmed the cancellation of the Moro Ako Party’s registration as a regional parliamentary political party. In a ruling issued on August 28, COMELEC upheld its earlier decision to reject the party’s application due to allegations of misrepresentation. The ruling effectively bars the Moro Ako Party from contesting the September 14 elections, highlighting the stringent regulatory environment governing the region’s political landscape. To ensure the integrity of the electoral process, COMELEC has taken steps to establish oversight mechanisms. On the same day, COMELEC chairman George Erwin Garcia signed a memorandum of agreement with several watchdog groups, including the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, the National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections, the Philippine Statistics Authority, and the Department of Education. The agreement outlines procedures for conducting a random manual audit of the election results, reinforcing efforts to prevent fraud and uphold democratic standards. As the election date approaches, attention continues to focus on how the outcome might shape the future governance of the BARMM. The success of these elections could serve as a benchmark for the effectiveness of the region’s newly formed institutions and the broader peace process that has sought to reconcile former adversaries. With voter turnout and public engagement likely to play a crucial role, the coming days will see increased media coverage, public discourse, and logistical preparations aimed at ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process.