Former Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri voiced strong opposition to extending the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) beyond its scheduled end date in May 2025, calling it a “clear violation of the law.” Zubiri made the statement during a press briefing, following Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero’s proposal to extend the BTA term until May 2026.
Zubiri emphasized that Republic Act 11593, signed in 2021, had already granted an extension of the BTA’s term from 2022 to 2025 to account for pandemic disruptions. According to Zubiri, the extension was explicitly intended to be the final one, aligning with the national and local elections in May 2025. “We cannot allow another extension,” he stated. “The law is clear that the next elections must be synchronized with the 2025 national and local elections.”
Upholding Democracy Through Elections
Zubiri reiterated the importance of holding the BARMM’s first parliamentary elections in 2025, describing it as a vital step in upholding democracy in the region. He argued that extending the transition period would silence the people’s voices, which can only be fully represented through an electoral process. “This election is not just a mandate of the law but a chance for BARMM’s residents to exercise their democratic rights,” he noted.
In addition, Zubiri warned that another extension could lead to backlash from local leaders and residents who have long awaited the opportunity to elect their representatives. He stressed that any move to delay the elections would contradict the promises made when the initial extension was granted.
Examining Escudero’s Proposal
Senate President Escudero’s proposal to delay the elections comes in light of recent developments, including the Supreme Court’s decision to remove Sulu from BARMM, which Escudero cited as a reason for postponement. Escudero argued that Sulu’s exit has significant implications for the region and that additional time may be needed to ensure BARMM’s stability.
While Zubiri stated that he would wait for Escudero’s explanation, he cautioned that any decision to amend the election date should be based on a compelling justification. He also pointed out that with the Senate’s current focus on budget deliberations and preparations for the 2025 elections, the legislative window for passing an extension bill may be limited.
Final Decision Rests on Legislative Review
As principal author of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, Zubiri remarked that while the initial extension was justified by the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, the current context no longer warrants another delay. He called on lawmakers to prioritize the people’s right to vote and underscored that any decision to alter the election schedule must be carefully reviewed.
The debate over the BTA extension underscores the delicate balance between ensuring stability in BARMM and respecting the democratic process. With the proposed postponement set for Senate deliberation, the decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for BARMM’s political landscape and the broader push for peace and self-governance in the region.
