DAVAO CITY (September 9) — Cotabato Archbishop Charlie M. Inzon, OMI, DD, has urged voters in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to make their choices freely and conscientiously, warning against material favors, political pressure, intimidation, and misinformation ahead of the region’s first parliamentary elections on Sept. 14.
In a pastoral message titled “Walking Together in Peace, Justice, and Hope,” Inzon described the elections as a historic moment and a significant milestone in the Bangsamoro’s continuing pursuit of lasting peace, genuine development and good governance.
“As Shepherd of the Catholic faithful in this region, I appeal to all voters to participate with conscience, wisdom, and courage,” Inzon said.
He urged voters not to allow “material favors, political pressure, intimidation, misinformation, or personal interests” to replace their conscience in choosing candidates.
“No temporary benefit is worth compromising the future of our people,” he said, calling on voters to be guided by truth and the common good.
The archbishop also appealed to candidates and political groups to conduct their campaigns and electoral activities with honesty, fairness, civility and respect.
He reminded those seeking public office that leadership is rooted in service and that public office is a “sacred trust—not a privilege for personal advancement.”
Inzon further called on candidates and their supporters to accept political differences after the elections without allowing them to become sources of hatred or hostility.
Instead, he said, differences should become opportunities for dialogue, mutual respect and understanding.
The archbishop also appealed to election officials, volunteers, civil society organizations and security personnel tasked with safeguarding the electoral process to remain impartial, courageous and professional.
“The credibility of these historic elections depends on the integrity with which each of you fulfills your duty,” he said.
Inzon said building a peaceful and just Bangsamoro is a responsibility shared by everyone, urging the people to uphold human dignity, stand with the vulnerable and work together for lasting peace.
“May God bless our elections. May God bless the Bangsamoro people. And may God grant us lasting peace,” he said.
The Sept. 14 parliamentary elections will mark the first time voters in the BARMM elect members of the regional parliament under the Bangsamoro electoral system.-/ezc
