NEWS




13October

BARMM launches voter education campaign ahead of 2025 parliamentary elections

COTABATO CITY – The Bangsamoro Information Office (BIO) has launched a comprehensive voter education campaign to prepare citizens for the upcoming 2025 parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The campaign, dubbed "Halalang Bangsamoro," kicked off with its first forum on the Bangsamoro Electoral Code (BEC) on Thursday, October 10, in this city. The forum brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including academia, Indigenous Peoples, Ulama, traditional leaders, and representatives from Ministries, Offices, and Agencies (MOAs).

The aim of the campaign is to equip citizens with a clear understanding of the electoral process, candidate qualifications, and voter registration procedures. 

BIO Executive Director Ameen Andrew Alonto highlighted the importance of educating citizens about the BEC to ensure their full and effective participation in the democratic process.

"We want to present salient information about the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, allowing all representatives to engage in a meaningful dialogue in shaping the democratic process in our region," Alonto said.

Participants engaged in open discussions on various election aspects, including the number of seats, sectoral representation, and the role of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in the BARMM. They also addressed concerns about access to information and participation, particularly in remote areas.

Dencio Kapingilan, a representative of the United Dulangan Manobo Non-Moro Indigenous Organization, expressed his appreciation for the Bangsamoro government's efforts to educate voters about the parliamentary election, stating that the forum provided valuable insights into the BEC and the representation of Indigenous Peoples.

The voter education campaign marks a significant step in the BARMM's journey toward self-governance. The event showcased the commitment of all stakeholders to building a democratic and inclusive society in the region.

A series of similar voter education activities is planned throughout the BARMM, including in the island provinces, to ensure wider participation and awareness leading up to the 2025 elections.