A significant portion of the electorate in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) consists of Gen Z, with three out of ten likely voters (32.1%) aged between 17 and 29, according to a recent survey by IAG Research. Digital natives and tech-savvy, this young cohort is poised to influence the region's upcoming parliamentary elections in 2025.

Read more: Pag-asa ng Bayan? Gen Z Key Voter Demographic in BARMM, according to IAG Research

This reflects the immediate need for economic stability in the region.

Read more: IAG Research: Livelihood Top Priority for BARMM Voters

Unlike other ethnic groups surveyed, the Teduray and Lambangian communities prioritize infrastructure and public works as their most pressing issue (44.6%). These communities, clustered in remote areas of southwestern Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur, lack basic amenities such as electricity, running water, social services, and proper roads, according to IAG Research.

Read more: IAG Research: Infrastructure and Public Works a Key Concern Among Teduray and Lambangian Voters

A recent survey by IAG Research finds that women’s issues are among the least cited as the single most important concern of the autonomous region’s voters, ranging from just 0.3% to 1% of respondents. This is particularly striking given that the majority of likely voters in BARMM are women (54.2%). The findings suggest that in a region where poverty is pervasive, economic survival takes precedence over advancing gender equality.

Read more: In BARMM, More Women Than Men Are Likely Voters, but Basic Needs Trump Gender Equality Ideals