President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in congratulating the winners of the inaugural Bangsamoro parliamentary elections, called for the respect and upholding of the poll outcomes and the Bangsamoro people’s aspiration for genuine autonomy and self-governance.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the President acknowledged the coalition of political parties formed to secure a majority in the 80-member Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliament and affirmed the national government’s commitment to building a strong, autonomous, and peaceful Bangsamoro.
“I extend my congratulations to all duly elected Members of the Bangsamoro Parliament. The first-ever BARMM Parliamentary Elections mark a historic milestone in the Bangsamoro’s pursuit of self-governance and lasting peace. The successful conduct of the elections shows that the political process is proceeding at such a good pace,” Marcos said.
“The national government acknowledges the coalition’s formation and its intention to constitute the Government of the Day through the appropriate parliamentary process. We respect Parliament’s authority to determine its leadership in accordance with the Bangsamoro Organic Law,” Marcos also said.
BARMM interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, who leads the Bangsamoro Federalist Party, had said that 46 incoming members of parliament (MPs) have joined and signed a coalition agreement, with more expected to align with the majority.
The President noted that his administration looks forward to collaborating with the government formally constituted by Parliament to advance peace, stability, and inclusive growth.
“Following the announcement of a 46-member majority coalition, I reiterate the national government’s respect for Bangsamoro autonomy and its democratic institutions,” Marcos said.
“We look forward to working with the government formally constituted by Parliament in support of peace, stability, and inclusive development. The national government will continue to support a strong, autonomous, and peaceful Bangsamoro,” Marcos also said.
The BARMM conducted its first parliamentary elections on September 14.