Bangsamoro Voter Registration Kicks Off with Nearly 1,000 Applicants on Opening Day
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) witnessed a robust start to its voter registration period, with nearly 1,000 individuals submitting applications on the very first day. According to data released by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), a total of 969 applicants were recorded on Monday, February 9, 2026, marking a significant turnout as the region gears up for upcoming electoral processes.
Regional Breakdown of Applicant Numbers
The Comelec provided a detailed breakdown of the applications across the provinces and areas within BARMM. Maguindanao del Norte emerged as the frontrunner, registering the highest number of applicants with 349 individuals. Following closely, the Special Geographic Area reported 208 applicants, while Lanao del Sur accounted for 148 applications. Other regions contributed to the total as well, with Maguindanao del Sur recording 134 applicants, Tawi-Tawi with 76, and Basilan with 54.
Voter Registration Timeline and Goals in BARMM
The voter registration activities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region are scheduled to continue until March 31, 2026. The Comelec has set an ambitious target, aiming to enlist approximately 100,000 individuals during this period. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance voter participation and ensure a comprehensive electoral roll in the region.
Nationwide Voter Registration Statistics
Beyond BARMM, the Comelec reported that voter registration efforts across the Philippines have been highly active in preparation for the November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). From October 20, 2025, to February 8, 2026, the poll body has received a total of 1,877,784 applications for voter registration nationwide. This figure underscores the widespread engagement of citizens in the democratic process.
Top Regions in National Voter Registration
An analysis of the nationwide data reveals that certain regions are leading in terms of applicant numbers. Calabarzon tops the list with 350,160 individuals having applied, followed by Central Luzon with 223,646, and the National Capital Region with 210,165. Other notable regions include Central Visayas with 105,078 applicants and the Bicol Region with 101,583.
Register Anywhere/Anytime Program and National Timeline
In addition to traditional registration methods, the Comelec's Register Anywhere/Anytime Program has also seen participation, with 2,591 applicants utilizing this flexible option. It is important to note that the voter registration period for the rest of the country, excluding BARMM, will extend until May 18, 2026. The Comelec has set a national goal of enlisting as many as four million individuals, reflecting a concerted push to maximize voter inclusion ahead of the 2026 elections.
