BARMM launches voter education forum for 2025 parliamentary elections

The Bangsamoro Information Office, under its Halalang Bangsamoro campaign, held the first forum on the Bangsamoro Electoral Code (BEC) on October 10, 2024, in Cotabato City. The event brought together leaders and stakeholders to discuss key aspects of the BEC.-Photo: Benyamin Ismael/BIO

DAVAO CITY—The Bangsamoro Information Office (BIO) has initiated a voter education campaign focused on the Bangsamoro Electoral Code (BEC) to prepare the public for the upcoming 2025 parliamentary elections. This campaign was launched on Thursday, October 10, in Cotabato City.

Through its Halalang Bangsamoro initiative, BIO brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including academia, Indigenous Peoples, Ulama, traditional leaders, and representatives from Ministries, Offices, and Agencies (MOAs). The goal is to equip citizens with a clear understanding of the electoral process, candidate qualifications, and voter registration.

BIO Executive Director Ameen Andrew Alonto emphasized the importance of educating the public about the BEC to ensure effective participation in the democratic process. “We aim to present essential information about the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, facilitating meaningful dialogue that shapes our region’s democracy,” Alonto stated.

The campaign is designed to foster understanding and cooperation for a fair and inclusive election in 2025. “We hope to work together to raise awareness in communities, enabling everyone to understand and embrace the Bangsamoro Electoral Code. Together, we can build a democratic, peaceful, and prosperous Bangsamoro,” he added.

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

Dencio Kapingilan, a 45-year-old representative of the United Dulangan Manobo Non-Moro Indigenous Organization from Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, expressed gratitude for the initiative. “This activity is important and greatly appreciated. It highlights the significance of representation for the Dulangan Manobo community and helps us understand the Bangsamoro Electoral Code ahead of the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election,” Kapingilan said.

This voter education campaign represents a significant step toward self-governance in the region and reflects the commitment of all stakeholders to building a democratic and inclusive society in BARMM. A series of similar educational activities is planned throughout the region, including in island provinces, to ensure broader participation and awareness leading up to the 2025 elections.