ESCUDERO URGES NEW BTA APPOINTMENTS FOR FAIR BARMM ELECTION

Senate President Chiz Escudero called on President Marcos to replace 35 Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) members running in BARMM’s first parliamentary election. Escudero argued that their candidacy requires stepping down to ensure fair elections and avoid conflicts of interest. He also pointed out constitutional issues with BTA rules allowing officials to retain positions after filing candidacies. With 35 of 40 BTA members running, Escudero emphasized the need for immediate replacements to uphold electoral integrity in the region.