President Marcos Signs Law Resetting Historic Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity has formally welcomed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s decisive action in signing Republic Act No. 12317 into law. This landmark legislation officially reschedules the inaugural Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao parliamentary elections to September 14, 2026, marking a pivotal development in the region's ongoing transition process.
Presidential Leadership and Congressional Support
The presidential peace office expressed profound gratitude for President Marcos Jr.'s steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment to preserving the integrity of the Bangsamoro peace process. The administration has consistently emphasized that safeguarding this peace framework represents one of the fundamental cornerstones of its comprehensive peace policy agenda.
Recognition also extends to both chambers of Congress for their decisive legislative action. Senate President Vicente Sotto III and House of Representatives Speaker Faustino G. Dy, alongside Majority Floor Leader Congressman Ferdinand Alexander "Sandro" A. Marcos, demonstrated remarkable urgency in passing this critical legislation during a crucial phase of the BARMM's political transition.
Acknowledgment of Regional Leadership
The statement further commended the BARMM Government under Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua and the Members of Parliament led by Speaker Mohammad Yacob. These leaders have effectively managed governance responsibilities and served their constituents with dedication despite numerous challenges, exemplifying genuine public service throughout the region's complex political landscape.
Strategic Significance of Election Rescheduling
The resetting of these parliamentary elections transcends mere timeline adjustments. This represents a necessary and strategically calculated measure designed to guarantee that the region's first parliamentary elections occur under conditions of peace, order, and credibility. Such conditions fundamentally embody the Bangsamoro people's aspirations for complete self-governance and meaningful self-determination.
These elections will constitute a historic milestone in implementing the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro. They symbolize the remarkable transformation of a region once devastated by prolonged armed conflict into an emerging showcase of peace, progress, and sustainable development. This evolution features a more stable, inclusive, and empowered governance structure that reflects the region's unique political character.
Strengthening Democratic Foundations
By enabling the establishment of essential legal, institutional, and political preconditions, Republic Act No. 12317 substantially reinforces the foundations of democratic, accountable, and people-centered governance throughout the Bangsamoro region. This legislative action further solidifies the collective national commitment to cultivating a just, lasting, and inclusive peace that benefits all regional stakeholders.
Call for Continued Collaboration
The presidential peace office has issued a compelling call to all peace partners and stakeholders to maintain their collaborative efforts in a spirit of unity and shared responsibility. As the Bangsamoro people approach this defining moment in their peace journey, coordinated action remains essential for achieving successful electoral outcomes and sustained regional advancement.
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity reaffirms its complete dedication to supporting all initiatives that will ensure the successful execution of the BARMM elections. This commitment extends to fostering continued progress in peacebuilding, reconciliation, and comprehensive development throughout the region and beyond its geographical boundaries.
