DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla expressed firm confidence in the preparations for the upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections scheduled for September 14, 2026.
Speaking after a command conference at Camp BGen Salipada K. Pendatun, Remulla confirmed that electoral preparations are now 98 percent complete, with security forces actively fine-tuning final contingency measures.
Joined by Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. and key regional officials, Remulla conducted a thorough assessment of security and logistical readiness across the region.
The former governor assured the public that all polling precincts are secured and comprehensive contingency plans have been established to prevent violent incidents.
To maintain peace and order throughout the electoral process, authorities will deploy 5,000 police officers alongside additional reinforcement personnel across the region.
Addressing the forces stationed for the event, Remulla issued a stern directive emphasizing strict accountability among law enforcement ranks. He warned that officers will be held directly answerable to him and the PNP Chief should violence disrupt the proceedings, stressing that peace must prevail.
The historic parliamentary elections were originally scheduled for earlier this year, but the Commission on Elections announced a postponement in January 2026 to ensure adequate preparation time and a secure voting framework.
Beyond local governance, Remulla highlighted the broader political significance of the upcoming vote, framing it as a vital opportunity to demonstrate to the global community that a thriving Muslim self-governing region can harmoniously exist within a predominantly Christian democratic republic.
As the region prepares for this historic political milestone, the DILG chief urged the Bangsamoro electorate to actively participate and consider their votes carefully, emphasizing that the future trajectory and stability of the region depend heavily on the leaders chosen at the polls.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, PNP Chief PGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., and other key officials visited Maguindanao del Norte to assess preparations for the upcoming BARMM elections.
