Gov officials propose postponing BARMM elections to May 2026

Government officials are discussing Senate Bill No. 2862 and House Bill No. 11034, both proposing to postpone the elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) from May 12, 2025 to May 11, 2026.

The bill aims to provide time for preparation following the Supreme Court's ruling excluding Sulu from BARMM and to ensure continued peace, development, and progress in the region.

Bangsamoro Parliament member Teng Ambolodto expressed support for the proposal, citing critical legal and administrative challenges introduced by the exclusion of Sulu.

Ambolodto noted that the exclusion necessitates significant adjustments to electoral districts and logistical planning, emphasizing the need for careful preparation to ensure a fair election process.

The proposed postponement would allow time for redrawing parliamentary districting, conducting voter education, and focusing on regional priorities.