BARMM polls postponed as SC declares districting laws unconstitutional

MANILA, Philippines – The Supreme Court has declared Bangsamoro Autonomy Acts 58 and 77 unconstitutional, effectively postponing the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao set for October 13.

The SC ordered the Commission on Elections to proceed with preparations and the conduct of elections not later than March 31, 2026. Meanwhile, the High Court ordered the Bangsamoro Transition Authority to determine distribution of district parliamentary seats by October 30, 2025.

BAA 58 created the parliamentary districts in the region. BAA 77, approved last August, amended BAA 58, redistributing Sulu’s seven seats.

Comelec earlier stopped preparations for the polls after the SC issued a temporary restraining order against the implementation of BAA 77.

“Now, it is very clear that we have no law to enforce,” Comelec Chairman George Garcia said Wednesday, October 1. “It’s back to zero for Comelec. But in the meantime, the ball is in the hands of the Bangsamoro Parliament. We shall be waiting for their action and compliance.” – Rappler.com