The midterm elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have been marred by escalating violence, intimidation, and militarization, undermining the region’s democratic process.
According to the independent monitoring group Boto Bangsamoro, at least 219 people have died in election-related violence since the filing of candidacies in October 2024, surpassing the death toll of the 2023 barangay elections.
The region has seen heavily armed groups, unauthorized checkpoints, and voter threats, turning polling precincts into militarized zones.
Despite the nationwide gun ban, violence continues unchecked, with incidents such as bombings and armed guards accompanying political figures.
Civil society groups have raised alarms about the growing militarization, warning that without urgent intervention, the elections could further damage the fragile credibility of the Bangsamoro peace process and deepen divisions in the region.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 12, 2025
