BARMM 2025 polls seen as test of decade-old gov’t-MILF peace deal

The first Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections in May 2025 will test the gains of the peace deal between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) 10 years ago, House Deputy Minority Leader and Basilan Representative Mujiv Hataman said Wednesday.

The peace deal, officially named Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), paved the way for the establishment of the BARMM, replacing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

“Ang halalan sa susunod na taon ang tunay na esensya ng kapayapaan at demokrasyang ipinaglaban natin sa Bangsamoro, dahil may kalayaan na ang mamamayan na pumili ng mga taong mamumuno rehiyon,” said Hataman, a former ARMM governor, in a statement.

(Next year’s election is the real essence of peace and democracy that we fought for in Bangsamoro, because it gives residents freedom to chose the leaders of the region.)

“Let us work together for genuine peace in the Bangsamoro, which will be realized if democracy is vibrant and the freedom of the people to choose their leaders becomes a reality,” Hataman added.

The BARMM, which was ratified by the voters in 2019, is currently governed by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) since the region was established.

The BTA is made up of members of the Bangsamoro Parliament, who have always been appointed by the President.

An election was supposed to be conducted in 2022, but Congress passed a law extending the existence of the BTA for another three years.

Hataman, however, said that the postponement of BARMM polls does not shadow the significant strides BARMM has made in the pursuit of lasting peace and development in Mindanao.

“This milestone in the peace process marks a pivotal moment in our history, one that has brought hope and optimism to the people of the Bangsamoro,” he said.

Hataman said when he was governor of ARMM, he witnessed how the peace process evolved and flourished under the Aquino administration, culminating in its finalization during the Duterte administration. 

“The establishment of BARMM is a testament to the unwavering commitment of both the government and the MILF to find a peaceful resolution to the decades-long conflict in the region,” Hataman said.

Peace, Hataman said, is integral to the progress and development of BARMM and the CAB has provided the framework upon which the people can build a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.

“It is crucial that we continue to uphold the principles and provisions outlined in the agreement, ensuring that the gains we have achieved are sustained and further strengthened in the years to come,” Hataman said.

In a separate statement, various sectors called for the speedy implementation of reforms provided under the peace deal and the creation of BARMM.

The groups noted that while the BTA achieved key milestones outlined in the CAB, such as organizing the BARMM bureaucracy, personnel disposition, and transferring powers and properties to the Bangsamoro government, the decommissioning of MILF forces, transformation of MILF camps, effective intergovernmental relations, and progress in transitional justice remain critical areas needing attention.

“Bangsamoro stakeholders recognize the progress made but also acknowledge the unfinished business and risks that need addressing,” said Bai Yasmin Busran-Lao, founding chair of Al Mujaadila Women’s Association as well as Nisa Ul-Haqq Fi Bangsamoro.

“It’s imperative for all parties to accelerate the implementation of the CAB and open up mechanisms for broader stakeholder participation.” —KBK, GMA Integrated News