Philippines’ Muslim-majority Bangsamoro region votes for first parliament

Former rebels in the Bangsamoro region of the southern Philippines are choosing their first parliament, marking a historic test of a political system born from years of conflict. Eighty members of parliament will represent regional, district and sectoral levels in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Tight security measures are in place to ensure peaceful and credible polling on Monday, September 14.

This vote signifies a major milestone in a long-running peace process and introduces a unique form of regional government in the Philippines, which typically follows a presidential system.

The establishment of a functioning parliamentary system represents a shift from armed struggle to policymaking, with experts viewing it as a significant achievement after years of violence, failed agreements and renewed peace efforts. The long-term test will be whether the political mandate can translate into effective governance, greater accountability and lasting peace.

Last month, all 13 parties vying for seats in parliament participated in a debate in Cotabato City, signaling a positive shift in the political landscape of the region.

Experts and peace negotiators believe that the parliamentary system can help strengthen institutions, improve accountability and provide the Bangsamoro population with meaningful political autonomy. Filipino peace negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer emphasized that the system could move the region away from politics dominated by individual strongmen, with parties having to work together and ensure a system of checks and balances.

The parliamentary election is crucial, as the elected representatives will be accountable to the Bangsamoro people, not the national government or the president of the Republic of the Philippines.