Lanao lawmaker lauds Marcos decision to defer BARRM polls

BARMM regional headquarters (File photo)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to reset the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARRM) elections is a crucial step to address parliamentary seat issue of Sulu province, Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong said on Friday.

Adiong said the crucial component of Marcos’ move is the President’s power to appoint members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), giving the chief executive power to reapportion the seats of Sulu.

Sulu voted against the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law so the Supreme Court ruled that the province is not part of the BARRM.

“This ruling has created a vacancy in the BTA that must be addressed to maintain inclusivity and balanced representation within the interim government,” Adiong said in a statement.

“With this new law in place, the President’s authority to appoint ensures that governance in BARMM remains responsive and reflective of the Bangsamoro people’s aspirations,” he added.

Sulu had seven seats in the BARRM parliament, and its departure from the autonomous region meant that its seat among the 80-members parliament became vacant.

Adiong said the delay of BARRM polls will give the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and BARMM institutions ample time to adjust.

The first ever BARRM election was scheduled simultaneously with the midterm elections on May 12.

“This extension allows for the proper preparation of voter registration, candidate selection, and public awareness campaigns, ensuring that the first-ever parliamentary elections in BARMM are conducted fairly and efficiently,” Adiong said.

 “By taking this step, we are laying the groundwork for a truly democratic and representative Bangsamoro government,” he added.