OPAPRU, Army condemn violence surrounding BARMM polls

MANILA (September 15)  — The government’s peace office and the Philippine Army condemned the violence that marred the eve and conduct of the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento condemned the Cotabato City attack on Sunday night that killed three people and wounded 15 others.

The attack came hours before Bangsamoro voters went to the polls Monday to elect the region’s first regular Parliament.

“We strongly condemn the violent incident that transpired in Cotabato City last night, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the families of the victims. Violence has absolutely no place in this historic milestone,” Sarmiento said.

He called for a swift investigation and accountability for those responsible, while saying the attack should not deter Bangsamoro voters from exercising their right to vote.

“OPAPRU remains steadfast in supporting Comelec, our security forces, and our peace partners to ensure that the will of the people prevails peacefully,” Sarmiento said.

The Philippine Army likewise said it remained committed to a peaceful and orderly electoral process.

Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala urged voters, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to remain calm and reject violence, intimidation and provocation.

“While minor incidents have been reported, these should not undermine the democratic process or cause fear and panic among our fellow Filipinos,” Dema-ala said.

The Army, he added, remained vigilant with other security forces and ready to respond to threats during the elections.

The statements came as authorities dealt with violence and other election-related incidents in several parts of BARMM.

The challenge, however, went beyond securing polling places. The first parliamentary elections were a test of whether the gains of the Bangsamoro peace process could withstand violence without denying voters their right to choose their leaders.