MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday assured that the Bangsamoro elections slated next year will be peaceful and orderly.
During the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro in Barira, Maguindanao del Norte, Marcos warned those who plan to derail the democratic process will face the government.
“As your President, I reassure that you will have an honest, orderly, and credible conduct of the electoral process,” the Chief Executive said in a speech.
“Let this also serve as a warning to those who may plan to threaten and derail this election. Huwag ninyo isipin ‘yan dahil ang kakalabanin ninyo ay ang pamahalaan,” Marcos added.
President Marcos also called on the residents of Bangsamoro to exercise their right to suffrage in the coming polls.
“This is the fulfillment of your democratic right to realize and achieve meaningful autonomy as it is enshrined in the CAB. I urge you, safeguard your rights, empower yourselves,” Marcos said.
“I also promised to exercise my strong political will to ensure peace and order in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Peace is achieved by working relentlessly,” he added.
In March 2023, the Bangsamoro Transition Authority passed the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, which will allow democratic participation in the local and regional elections.
It also paved the way for the creation of political parties in the region with representatives from women, youth, indigenous people, settler communities, traditional leaders, and the ulama.
The Bangsamoro Region was supposed to have their first-ever election during the 2022 national elections but it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic./PN
