Comelec Announces Seat Distribution for Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has officially detailed the seat allocation for the upcoming Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE), following adjustments made by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA). In a significant announcement, the electoral body confirmed that 32 district representatives and eight sectoral representatives will be elected through this process.
District Seat Allocation by Region
According to Comelec Resolution 11199, which was issued by the en banc, 32 representatives will be elected from single-member parliamentary districts. These districts are apportioned across specific areas as mandated by the Parliament. The breakdown of seats is as follows:
- Lanao del Sur will have the highest number of seats with nine.
- Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur each receive five seats.
- Basilan and Tawi-Tawi are allocated four seats each.
- Cotabato City has been assigned three seats.
- The Special Geographic Area will have two seats.
Sectoral Representation Details
In addition to the district seats, voters will elect at least eight sectoral representatives to ensure diverse representation in the Bangsamoro Parliament. The sectoral seats are distributed as follows:
- Two seats for Non-Moro Indigenous Peoples.
- Two seats for Settler Communities.
- One seat each for Women, Youth, Traditional Leaders, and Ulama.
Role of Political Parties
Political parties participating in the BPE will fill the remaining 40 seats in the Bangsamoro Parliament. The Comelec emphasized that one-half of the Parliament's members will be representatives from political parties, elected through a system of proportional representation. This structure aims to balance direct electoral mandates with party-based governance.
Overall, a total of 80 seats in the Bangsamoro Parliament will be contested in the BPE, marking a pivotal step in the region's political development. The elections are set to shape the legislative landscape and ensure broad-based participation from various communities and sectors.
