MILF opposes BARMM parliamentary polls postponement

MANILA, Philippines —  The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is not seeking to postpone the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim yesterday said it is alright for the MILF if the electoral exercise pushes through as scheduled.

“That is the official stand of the MILF on the issue,” Ebrahim said.

He made the statement days after members of the House of Representatives and senators filed measures to defer the BARMM elections.

MILF officials said the United Bangsamoro Justice Party is ready for the Bangsamoro parliamentary elections next year.

Ebrahim, chairman of the central committee of the MILF, said they have drafted a resolution appealing for the elections to be held as scheduled in May 2025.

Petitions vs
nuisance bets

Meanwhile, as the period for the filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) for the BARMM polls ended on Saturday, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will now start accepting petitions against nuisance candidates.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia yesterday said the poll body is ready to accept petitions for disqualification, declaration as nuisance candidates and cancellation of candidacy against those seeking seats in the BARMM parliament.

“Such petitions must be filed here, as it is the Comelec divisions and the en banc that will resolve these,” Garcia said.

Garcia urged all stakeholders to help maintain peace and order in the region.

He expressed hope that poll candidates would remain cordial and hold peaceful dialogues.