Comelec Moves Forward with Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election Registration
Despite the continued pendency of the law that would establish a new date for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE), the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is taking proactive steps by planning to open registration for political parties and sectoral organizations as early as next week. This development underscores the agency's commitment to maintaining electoral preparedness in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Accreditation Reopening Announced by Chairman Garcia
Comelec Chairman George Garcia has confirmed that the agency will reopen the accreditation period for Regional Parliamentary Political Parties (RPPP) and Parliamentary Sectoral Organizations (PSO) participating in the upcoming BPE. "Political parties and sectoral organizations can file their new petitions by next week," Garcia stated, emphasizing the urgency of the process. This move applies to both new applicants and those previously denied, ensuring a fresh start for all entities seeking to participate in the region's governance.
Mandatory Reapplication for Previously Accredited Groups
In a significant shift, Garcia clarified that all previously accredited entities must reapply. This includes the 20 RPPPs and 191 PSOs that were accredited under the Bangsamoro Autonomy Act (BAA) 88. "Take note that all of your accreditations have been disregarded. Thus, the Comelec will now once again accept petitions to be accredited as a Sectoral Organization or as a Political Party," he explained. This decision aims to standardize the registration process and ensure compliance with updated electoral guidelines.
Detailed Application Procedures and Timelines
The Comelec has outlined specific procedures and tentative timelines for the registration process:
- For RPPPs: Applications are tentatively scheduled between March 17 and 20 at the Bangsamoro Registration and Accreditation Committee (BRAC). RPPPs must have at least 5,000 registered BARMM voters to qualify.
- For PSOs: Applications are tentatively set for March 16 to 23 at the BRAC, with organizations required to submit the names of three nominees.
Additionally, the agency has specified document requirements:
- Previously denied and new RPPPs/PSOs must file a Verified Petition for Registration.
- Formerly accredited political parties and sectoral organizations must file a Verified Manifestation in Lieu of Petition for Registration.
This structured approach is designed to streamline the accreditation process and foster transparency in the Bangsamoro region's political landscape, even as the election date remains undetermined by law.
