President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Monday urged voters in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to “safeguard the integrity of the ballot and preserve peace“ as they cast their votes in the region’s first regular parliamentary elections.
In a video statement, Marcos described the Sept. 14 elections as a “defining moment” for BARMM and the country, urging qualified voters to participate responsibly and choose leaders who can strengthen Bangsamoro institutions and contribute to the development of Mindanao.
“This election marks a milestone in the continuing journey of the BARMM toward lasting peace, democratic governance, and meaningful self-determination,” Marcos said.
He encouraged voters to take part in the historic elections “with wisdom, dignity, and respect for one another.”
“May the votes that you will cast help us identify good leaders who can strengthen the institutions of the Bangsamoro and contribute to the progress of Mindanao and the entire nation,” he said.
Marcos also called on voters to protect the electoral process and maintain peace during the polls.
“Let us also safeguard the integrity of the ballot and preserve the peace that has made this democratic exercise possible,” he said.
“As we nurture our Bagong Pilipinas, may the choices that we make further deepen our sense of civic duty and forge stronger bonds that hold us together as one nation,” he added.
After four postponements, the first parliamentary elections in BARMM pushed through on Monday.
The elections will determine the members of the Bangsamoro Parliament, the legislative body of BARMM established under the Bangsamoro Organic Law, or Republic Act No. 11054.
