Republic Act No. 11593 moves the schedule of the first regular elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
It amends Section 13, Article XVI of Republic Act No. 11054, also known as the Bangsamoro Organic Law, with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) overseeing the adjustment of the electoral timeline.
Instead of happening in May 2022, the first elections will now be held in May 2025.
Why This Law Matters
Transitioning to a new autonomous government takes time, careful planning, and real preparation.
While the original goal was to elect BARMM’s first officials by 2022, delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing development challenges made it difficult.
Holding elections too early could have weakened the region’s future.
By extending the transition, Republic Act 11593 gives BARMM a better chance for lasting peace, stronger leadership, and real progress.
Scope and Coverage:
- Applies only to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)
- Affects the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), qualified voters, and future elected officials in the region
Whether you live in Cotabato City, Marawi, or Basilan, this law directly impacts when and how you will choose your regional leaders.
Key Changes Under Republic Act 11593
Republic Act 11593 brings important changes that affect governance and elections in BARMM:
- Postponed Elections:
The first BARMM regular elections are rescheduled from May 2022 to May 2025. - Extended Transition Period:
The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) will continue managing the region until newly elected officials assume office after the 2025 elections. - Presidential Authority for Appointments:
If necessary, the President of the Philippines can appoint new members to the BTA to maintain smooth leadership during the extended transition. - Focus on Completing Reforms:
The BTA is expected to continue passing important laws, forming government agencies, and strengthening local governance to prepare for the transition.
This extended timeline is not just a delay—it’s a necessary step to build a stronger and more stable future for the Bangsamoro region.
Responsibilities and Accountability
Penalties or Enforcement:
- Republic Act 11593 does not introduce new criminal penalties.
- It focuses on adjusting the electoral schedule and managing the transition properly.
Even though there are no fines or jail terms involved, the Bangsamoro Transition Authority carries a heavy responsibility:
- Deliver promised reforms
- Pass key legislation
- Prepare institutions for a peaceful and democratic turnover of power in 2025
The true “penalty” is accountability to the people who trust them to fulfill the promises of the peace agreement.
How to Stay Updated on BARMM Elections
If you are a resident of BARMM or know someone who is, staying updated is important.
Here’s how you can monitor developments:
- Check the Bangsamoro Government’s website: bangsamoro.gov.ph
- Follow updates from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC): comelec.gov.ph
- Stay informed through trusted local news outlets that report on BARMM’s transition and electoral processes.
Being informed ensures that you know your rights and are ready when the elections finally arrive.
Where to View or Download Republic Act 11593
You can view and download the full official text of Republic Act 11593 here:
Inside the document, you’ll find:
- The specific amendment to the Bangsamoro Organic Law
- Details about the rescheduled election timeline
- Clarifications on the powers and responsibilities of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority
📄 Tip: Save a copy for future reference, especially if you are preparing for the 2025 elections.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why were the BARMM elections postponed?
The elections were postponed to give the Bangsamoro Transition Authority enough time to complete the transition and deliver meaningful reforms delayed by the pandemic.
- Who will govern BARMM until the 2025 elections?
The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) will continue to serve as the interim government until the first regular officials are elected and take office in 2025.
- How does this delay affect Bangsamoro voters?
Voters will not elect BARMM regional officials in 2022.
Instead, they will vote in May 2025, after the full transition is completed, ensuring that they choose leaders ready to guide a strong regional government.
- Where can I find official updates about BARMM’s transition?
You can stay updated by visiting:
- bangsamoro.gov.ph for announcements from the Bangsamoro Government
- comelec.gov.ph for official election schedules and voter information
- Reputable local news organizations covering BARMM affairs
Video: BARMM parliamentary polls postponed – Comelec chief | INQToday
The first parliamentary elections for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have been postponed.
This decision was announced by Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Erwin Garcia. The elections, originally scheduled for May 12, 2025, have been rescheduled to October 13, 2025.
This marks the second postponement of these elections, as they were initially set for May 2022 but were delayed to 2025 under Republic Act No. 11593, signed by then-President Rodrigo Duterte in 2021.
The recent postponement follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signing of a bill that certified the delay as urgent. Critics argue that such delays undermine democratic processes and the Bangsamoro people’s right to elect their leaders.
Conclusion
Republic Act 11593 shows that nation-building is not about rushing.
It’s about preparing, strengthening, and ensuring that every step forward leads to lasting change.
By giving the Bangsamoro region more time to complete its transition, this law offers hope for a stronger, more peaceful, and more empowered BARMM in the future.
Patience today means better leadership tomorrow—and a brighter future for every Bangsamoro citizen.