The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a crucial reminder to the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), emphasizing the urgent need for the passage of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) districting law before the month ends.
Critical Deadline for Election Preparations
Comelec Chairman George Garcia stated that the election body requires the districting law on or before November 30, 2025. He explained that this deadline is essential for the commission to begin the filing of candidacies for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) on January 2, 2026, immediately after the long holiday break.
"Otherwise, we will not be able to manage it, especially since this is an automated election," Garcia added, highlighting the significant logistical challenges that would arise from any delay.
Uncertainty Clouds Electoral Process
Garcia expressed deep concern over the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the BPE's conduct. This apprehension stems directly from the BTA's continued failure to enact the necessary legislation that defines the parliamentary districts within the autonomous region.
"Unfortunately, we are still currently waiting for news on the passage of the districting law. There is still uncertainty whether it will be passed," the poll chief noted during an interview. He further described the situation as "really very uncertain," casting doubt on the electoral timeline.
Legal Mandate and Supreme Court Directive
The urgency of this matter is compounded by a previous directive from the Supreme Court, which had ordered the Bangsamoro Transition Authority to pass a new BARMM districting law by October 30, 2025—a deadline that has already passed.
Concurrently, the High Tribunal also mandated the Comelec to proceed with all necessary preparations and to conduct the inaugural Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections no later than March 31, 2026. This creates a tight schedule that depends entirely on the immediate resolution of the districting law impasse.
