The postponement of the first Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections from May 12, 2025, to October 13, 2025, has been officially approved following the agreement between the Senate and the House of Representatives. This decision, certified as urgent by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., aims to ensure a smoother and well-prepared transition for the Bangsamoro government. However, it comes with significant financial and governance implications.
Financial and Logistical Challenges for Comelec
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has highlighted the financial impact of the postponement, stating that it will require an additional P2.5 billion if the Bangsamoro elections are held separately from the National and Local Elections (NLE). Comelec Chairperson George Garcia noted that a standalone election would necessitate separate equipment, materials, and manpower, making it a costly endeavor. The Senate and the House bicameral conference committee will now finalize the provisions of the law, including budget allocations and the continuity of the current Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) members until the election date.
Addressing Legal and Security Concerns
One of the key reasons cited for the postponement is the Supreme Court’s decision to exclude the Province of Sulu from the BARMM. This ruling has significant implications for the region’s territorial jurisdiction, governance structure, and electoral representation. Senate President Francis Escudero emphasized that delaying the elections provides an opportunity to address these legal complexities and prevent further disputes.
Additionally, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. pointed out that the postponement will allow more time for decommissioning efforts in the region. Managing small arms and light weapons is a crucial step in reducing election-related violence and ensuring a peaceful transition to a fully autonomous Bangsamoro government.
Political and Governance Implications
The Bangsamoro government has expressed its support for the postponement, viewing it as a necessary step to complete the transition process mandated by the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). The delay provides time to implement key governance reforms and institutionalize necessary structures before the first parliamentary elections take place.
Despite this, concerns remain about the continuity of leadership within the BTA. The bicameral conference committee will determine whether current BTA members will retain their positions until the rescheduled elections, which could influence the region’s political stability and governance effectiveness in the interim.
Looking Ahead
With the final measure set to be ratified and submitted to President Marcos Jr. for signing before Congress adjourns on February 7, stakeholders must now focus on ensuring the smooth conduct of the rescheduled elections. The additional time should be used to strengthen democratic institutions, enhance electoral processes, and address security challenges to guarantee a credible and inclusive election in October 2025.
Ultimately, while the postponement presents logistical and financial challenges, it also provides an opportunity to solidify the foundations of Bangsamoro’s autonomous governance, ensuring that the region’s first parliamentary elections are conducted with integrity and broad participation.