The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has officially announced the resumption of voter registration activities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for the upcoming November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). This critical electoral process will recommence on Monday, February 8, 2026, marking a significant step toward ensuring democratic participation in the region.
Registration Schedule and Locations
In a recent social media announcement, the Comelec detailed that voter registration will run from February 9 until March 31, 2026, across all areas within BARMM. The poll body emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, "Because you are one with us in the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, let's get registered Bangsamoro." This call to action aims to mobilize residents and foster civic engagement ahead of the local polls.
Operating Hours and Offices
Voter registration activities will be conducted in the Offices of the Election Officer (OEOs) located in key provinces, including:
- Maguindanao del Norte
- Maguindanao del Sur
- Lanao del Sur
- Basilan
- Tawi-tawi
- Special Geographic Areas (SGA)
These offices will operate from Mondays to Saturdays, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., providing ample opportunity for eligible voters to complete their registration. The extended hours and weekend availability are designed to accommodate the diverse schedules of BARMM residents.
Register Anywhere Program for Displaced Residents
Recognizing the mobility of the population, the Comelec has also highlighted the Register Anywhere Program (RAP) for BARMM residents based in other parts of the Philippines. This initiative allows individuals to apply for voter registration at OEOs in highly urbanized cities, capital cities, municipalities, and satellite voter registration sites nationwide. The RAP ensures that even those temporarily residing outside BARMM can participate in the upcoming elections, promoting inclusivity and broader voter turnout.
Expected Registration Numbers
Comelec Chairman George Garcia provided insights into the anticipated scale of this registration drive. In a phone interview, he estimated that nearly 100,000 BARMM residents are expected to register, stating, "Tingin ko mga less than 100,000 po sila." This projection underscores the significance of the effort and the Comelec's commitment to facilitating a smooth and accessible registration process for the region's electorate.
Context and Background
The resumption of voter registration follows the Comelec's recent decision to postpone the March 30, 2026 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE). This strategic move allows the poll body to focus resources and attention on the BSKE, ensuring that local governance elections proceed without disruption. The announcement last week set the stage for this renewed registration push, aligning with broader electoral preparations in the autonomous region.
As the registration period unfolds, the Comelec continues to emphasize the importance of voter participation in strengthening democratic processes at the grassroots level. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the available services to secure their right to vote in the pivotal 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.
