Voting began Monday in the Philippines’ Muslim-majority south under heightened security. Three people died and 15 others suffered injuries in violence before the historic election.
The election represents a crucial test for peace and development efforts in the region. The area previously faced separatist conflict and extremism, including the 2017 siege of Marawi City.
The Commission on Elections placed Cotabato City under its control after Sunday’s violence. Local reports said an argument at a polling station escalated into gunfire.
COMELEC said voting continued smoothly across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Authorities also expanded checkpoints and quickly deployed additional security forces.
Election Faces Security and Logistical Challenges
Officials also reported a logistical problem in Basilan province before voting began. Election officials discovered pre-shaded ballots in one municipality, forcing authorities to delay voting there.
COMELEC spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said officials would need to reprint the affected ballots. Meanwhile, nearly 2.4 million voters have registered for the election across the region.
International partners and peace monitors view the election as an important test of regional autonomy. The process will determine whether institutions created under a 2014 peace agreement can sustain democratic governance.
The agreement sought to end decades of conflict between Manila and Muslim separatists. The conflict killed more than 120,000 people and displaced around two million others.
Election Marks New Chapter for Bangsamoro
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged residents to participate in what he called a defining moment. He said the election marked another milestone toward lasting peace, democratic governance and meaningful self-determination.
The election completes a transition established through an agreement between Manila and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. A later law granted greater political and economic powers to the Muslim-majority south.
Voters approved the law overwhelmingly in a 2019 plebiscite, paving the way for BARMM. The region now operates under a parliamentary system with an 80-member elected parliament.
The legislature will choose the region’s chief minister after the election. Former rebels, rival factions and traditional political clans are competing for influence.
In Basilan, 70-year-old Jessica Abing also planned to vote again for greater self-rule. She said recent development, including a new Jollibee branch, offers hope for a safer future.
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