Comelec, security forces finalize preparations for Bangsamoro polls

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and security forces have completed all necessary preparations for the upcoming September 14 parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Region. A final command conference, held Wednesday at the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region headquarters, brought together key election, security, and government officials to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and secure vote.

“

The upcoming elections are particularly significant because the BARMM elections have been postponed several times, making the September 14 vote an important opportunity for residents to exercise their right to choose their leaders.

Comelec chair George Erwin Garcia led the meeting, which included Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla, Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Philippine Coast Guard Commander Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, and Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran. Also in attendance were the interim chief minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and governors from Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Basilan, with Tawi-Tawi sending a representative.

Garcia reported that training for teachers who will serve as election personnel is nearly complete, and election equipment is being distributed to provincial hubs, with full distribution expected by the end of August. He highlighted the significance of the September 14 vote, noting that the BARMM elections have been postponed multiple times, making this an important opportunity for residents to exercise their right to choose leaders. The Comelec is also enforcing rules on campaign materials, removing them from unauthorized areas.

“

Ordinary criminal incidents could potentially spill over into the election period and be mistaken for election-related violence.

While the security situation is currently stable, Garcia acknowledged the need for continued vigilance. He noted that ordinary criminal incidents could be mistaken for election-related violence. The AFP has reported no monitored election-related security threats, though authorities remain aware of the potential for such incidents as the election period progresses.

“

The AFP has not monitored any election-related security threat.