The Commission on Elections (Comelec) clarified that security preparations for the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will continue despite the Supreme Court’s temporary restraining order halting election-related activities.
Comelec said the suspension only applies to its internal activities, while the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) must maintain readiness in case the TRO is lifted.
Chairman George Erwin Garcia admitted uncertainty looms over the October 13 polls, stressing the Comelec cannot proceed without the Court’s guidance.
The dispute stems from Bangsamoro Autonomous Act 77, which reallocates seven parliamentary seats from Sulu, requiring ballot reprinting and machine reconfiguration if enforced.
Garcia warned that time, budget, and logistical constraints make it nearly impossible to prepare unless Congress or the Supreme Court clarifies the election’s status.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 23, 2025
