The Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MBHTE-BARMM) has prohibited Islamic school teachers and contractual personnel from participating in any political or election-related activities ahead of the September 14 BARMM parliamentary elections.
In MBHTE Order No. 0013, Series of 2026, Acting Deputy Minister Ay. Abubakar A. Katambak directed all concerned offices to strictly enforce the prohibition among Islamic Studies and Arabic Language (ISAL) teachers and other contractual employees of the ministry.
The order cited existing civil service laws and election guidelines, as well as the MBHTE’s commitment to preserving public trust and electoral integrity through the strict political neutrality of ministry personnel.
The directive came after the ministry received information that some Contract of Service personnel, including ISAL teachers, would serve as watchers for certain political parties and/or candidates in the September 14, 2026 BARMM Parliamentary Elections.
Under the order, all ISAL teachers and contracted MBHTE personnel are strictly prohibited from serving as poll watchers, campaign workers, or designated representatives of any political candidate, party, or coalition during the elections.
The directive also requires contracted ministry employees, including ISAL teachers, to maintain absolute political neutrality.
The MBHTE further ordered schools, learning centers, and administrative spaces under the Madaris Subsector and Division Offices to remain completely free from political influence or campaign activities.
Director General for Madaris Education Tahir G. Nalg, MAIS and all Schools Division Superintendents were directed to immediately disseminate the order and ensure strict compliance.
Failure to comply with the directive may result in administrative disciplinary action, including the immediate termination or non-renewal of employment contracts, without prejudice to possible criminal action and other legal remedies under applicable laws.
