Marcos urges BARMM voters to take part in historic inaugural elections

September 14, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

As the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao marked its first parliamentary elections, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday urged qualified voters to take part in the historic event as part of the region’s journey towards self-determination.

He made the call in a video message posted on Monday, in which he called the inaugural BARMM elections as a “defining moment” in the history of the region.

“This election marks a milestone in the continuing journey of the BARMM toward lasting peace, democratic governance, and meaningful self-determination,” Marcos said.

He went on: “I therefore encourage every qualified voter to take part in this momentous event with wisdom, dignity, and respect for one another.”

He said their votes will help “identify good leaders who can strengthen the institutions of the Bangsamoro and contribute to the progress of Mindanao and the entire nation.”

“Let us also safeguard the integrity of the ballot and preserve the peace that has made this democratic exercise possible,” Marcos said.

“May the choices that we make further deepen our sense of civic duty and forge stronger bonds that hold us together as one nation,” he added.