The upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections face a dilemma: high costs and the threat of violence. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) estimates a P1 billion budget for manual elections in 2026, while automated elections would cost P3 billion. The region's history of election-related violence, fueled by land disputes and political feuds, raises concerns. Comelec lacks funds for voter education, highlighting the need for alternative strategies like culture-based mediation. The decision on whether to postpone the elections is complex, with arguments both for and against it.
ELECTIONS in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will cost the government a billion pesos. The subject of postponing them is urgent because it affects the destiny of millions of children there.According to Commission of Elections Chairman George Garcia, Comelec will need a budget of P1 billion if the elections will be deferred to 2026 and will be conducted manually. If the BARMM elections are automated, the cost will be around P3 billion.
Senate of the Philippines, which underscores the constitutional requirement for synchronized national and local elections, with exceptions only for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.He explained the repercussions of delaying the elections:'Kung ipapagpaliban natin ang 2025 BARMM elections, at ayon sa panukalang pinag-uusapan natin sa Kongreso ngayon ay every three years na ang halalan, the succeeding elections would fall in May 2029.
BARMM Elections Postponement Violence Politics Budget Land Disputes Mediation
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