Parliament member calls for postponement of first regional parliamentary elections in BARMM

DAVAO CITY — Michael Midtimbang, a member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), has proposed postponing the first-ever regional parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), scheduled for next year.

Midtimbang, who represents Maguindanao del Sur, made the call during a press briefing on Monday, emphasizing the need for additional time to amend the Bangsamoro Autonomy Act (BAA) No. 58, which governs the creation of parliamentary districts.

In his resolutions—631 and 632—filed on September 20, Midtimbang cited the recent Supreme Court ruling that excluded Sulu from BARMM. He argued that the law must be revised to fairly redistribute the seven parliamentary seats previously allocated to Sulu, ensuring equitable representation for the remaining territories within the region.

“These amendments are essential for achieving fair representation and addressing the unique needs of each district within BARMM,” Midtimbang stated. He stressed that such changes would allow for a more balanced distribution of parliamentary seats, reflecting the demographic and cultural diversity of the Bangsamoro region.

His second resolution specifically requests the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to extend the filing period for certificates of candidacy (COCs) to accommodate the necessary adjustments in parliamentary districts. “An extension will enable more potential candidates to participate, ensuring that the region’s diverse population is represented in the upcoming elections,” he explained.

Under BAA No. 58, BARMM voters are set to elect a total of 80 parliament members, comprising 40 party-list representatives, 32 district representatives, and eight sectoral representatives. The Comelec has already adjusted the COC filing period from the original dates of October 1-8 to November 4-9, following the Supreme Court’s decision.

Midtimbang’s call for postponement and legislative amendments has sparked discussions among various stakeholders, including local leaders and civil society organizations. Many agree that ensuring proper representation is critical to the democratic process and governance in BARMM, particularly in light of the recent changes in its political landscape.

As the region prepares for these pivotal elections, the call for a delay raises important questions about the future governance structure of BARMM and the representation of its constituents. Midtimbang concluded, “It is our responsibility to ensure that every voice is heard and represented fairly in our parliament, paving the way for a more inclusive and just Bangsamoro.”