2026-04-12

BHRC voter education prepares SGA residents for BARMM’s first parliamentary polls

Residents from Ligawasan’s seven barangays attend the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission’s voter education activity, “Human Rights Education on Election Laws for Rights Holders,” in Barangay Bulol on March 26, ahead of BARMM’s first parliamentary elections. (Comenei Ali/BIO) LIGAWASAN, Special Geographic Area — With the first-ever Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections approaching, the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) on March 26 gathered residents from the town’s seven barangays for a voter education campaign in Barangay Bulol aimed at promoting informed and prepared participation. Titled “Human Rights Education on Electoral Laws for Rights Holders,” the activity sought to deepen public understanding of the region’s electoral process and the parliamentary system that will govern the upcoming polls. The framework for the inaugural parliamentary elections is set under Bangsamoro Autonomy Act (BAA) No. 35, or the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, as amended by BAA No. 88. BHRC Provincial Director for the Special Geographic Area and Cotabato City, Atty. Mumar Ali Succor, said the initiative was designed to address gaps in public awareness about the new electoral system. “This year, we will hold parliamentary elections, which is a new system for us. Many of us still lack sufficient information, so through this activity, we hope to better understand who and how we should vote,” he said. “It is everyone’s right to choose their elected officials, and that is why the BHRC is here to support you in properly exercising your right to suffrage,” Succor added. Under the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, voters in the September 14, 2026 polls will elect party, district, and sectoral representatives, while the Non-Moro Indigenous Peoples seat will be filled through a sectoral assembly. In her message, Ligawasan Administrator Omolhayr Talembo underscored the importance of voter awareness, noting that informed choices will shape the region’s future. “The future rests upon the leaders we choose; therefore, it is essential that we understand the electoral process,” Talembo said. “We must be more discerning in our vote, as the future of the next generation will be affected by our decisions.” The BHRC is set to roll out similar activities in other SGA municipalities, in line with its mandate to promote human rights through education and training. (Bai Omairah Yusop/BIO)