Comelec Stands Firm: No Extension for Bangsamoro Voter Registration Deadline
The Commission on Elections has made a definitive announcement regarding the voter registration period for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Comelec Chairman George Garcia confirmed in a phone interview on Monday that there will be absolutely no extension beyond the Tuesday, March 31, 2026 deadline.
Final Opportunity for Registration
Garcia emphasized that residents of the Bangsamoro region must complete their voter registration applications between Tuesday and Wednesday to ensure their eligibility for upcoming elections. This registration serves a dual purpose, enabling participation in both the September 2025 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections and the November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.
"This is two for one. It's for Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, it's also for the Barangay and SK Elections. Be part of the change. Let your voices be heard," Garcia stated, urging citizens to take immediate action.
Registration Logistics and Current Statistics
Voter registration activities are conducted from Mondays to Saturdays, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., at all Offices of Election Officers and satellite registration centers throughout the Bangsamoro region. According to the latest Comelec data, the region has recorded 132,178 voter registrants from February 9 to March 28, 2026.
The breakdown by area shows:
- Lanao del Sur leads with 39,974 applicants
- Maguindanao del Norte follows with 27,308 applicants
- Maguindanao del Sur has 20,633 applicants
- Basilan recorded 18,234 applicants
- The Special Geographic Area has 13,619 applicants
- Tawi-Tawi has 12,410 applicants
Comelec projects that the total number of voter registration applicants in the Bangsamoro region will reach approximately 150,000 by the deadline. This final push represents a crucial opportunity for residents to secure their voting rights and participate in shaping their region's political future through democratic processes.
