Comelec may postpone Bangsamoro elections

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is considering postponing the first Bangsamoro parliamentary elections, initially set for October 13, 2025, and has requested feedback from stakeholders by September 27, 2025.

Comelec needs three to four weeks for preparations, which would extend beyond the current election date.

The poll body faces legal complexities due to the repeal of Bangsamoro Autonomy Act 58 by BAA 77, which is currently subject to a Supreme Court order, and a separate Supreme Court TRO concerning district elections.

Despite the complexities, a poll watchdog, LENTE, is urging Comelec to conduct a partial election on October 13, proceeding with voting for political parties and sectoral representatives while respecting the TRO on district elections.

LENTE believes a partial implementation is preferable to a complete postponement to guarantee suffrage where possible and to avoid undermining the democratic and peace processes in the Bangsamoro region.