COTABATO CITY – With the first-ever parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) scheduled for October 13, 2025, and national and local polls approaching on May 12, 2025, the Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG), with support from the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Philippines, has launched a crucial political education initiative. This drive specifically targets young voters, aiming to equip them with essential knowledge about the upcoming elections, particularly the unique parliamentary system being introduced in BARMM.

"We believe in the power of informed participation, and the youth are the very voices that will shape the future of the Bangsamoro region," IAG said.

This focus on youth is statistically grounded. IAG Research indicates that Gen Z (aged 17-29) constitutes 32.1% of potential voters in BARMM, while Millennials (born 1982-1994) make up another 24.8%, together forming a substantial portion of the electorate.

To maximize its reach, IAG is strategically collaborating with local institutions known for their community service, engagement, and advocacy. This partnership approach, according to IAG, aims to ensure information effectively reaches diverse stakeholders and filters down through their social networks, thereby amplifying the initiative's impact.

IAG commenced its political education initiative in Upi, Maguindanao del Norte, on March 13, 2025, by conducting the inaugural forum in partnership with the Upi Agricultural School (UAS) and the Indigenous Women Resource Center (IWRC). The forum drew approximately 100 students and educators from various institutions: UAS-College, UAS Senior High School, St. Francis Episcopal School of Upi, Notre Dame of Upi, Bugabungan National High School, and Nangi National High School. During the session, attendees gained insights into the Bangsamoro government structure and its electoral system, with the historical struggles of the Moro people and non-Islamized Indigenous Peoples, which led to BARMM's autonomy, providing crucial context.

"We hope that this forum contributed to the understanding of the parliamentary elections and the political system in BARMM, enabling our young voters to make informed decisions that align with their values and aspirations for their communities. No voice is too small to contribute to BARMM's future," IAG commented on the forum's objective.

A subsequent session engaged the network of the OND Hesed Foundation on April 5, 2025 , bringing together around 50 young voters – including Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials, community organizers, and students – from the municipalities of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Datu Blah Sinsuat, and Upi in Maguindanao del Norte. Participants explored Mindanao's history, the Bangsamoro government structure, and the electoral system. The discussion also broadened to encompass national and regional issues, including the challenges posed by misinformation ("fake news") and artificial intelligence on social media. A key goal for IAG and OND Hesed was to enhance participants' ability to critically evaluate online information.

When invited to share their motivations for voting, the young participants revealed a compelling mix of personal hopes and deep-seated community concerns. Their voices painted a picture of what truly mattered: the desire for tangible improvements in their daily lives and a more secure future.

Concerns about security echoed frequently, with individuals expressing the need for personal safety, the protection of their families, and broader peace within their communities. Alongside this fundamental need for security was a strong call for better governance and accountability. Participants spoke of wanting their taxes used properly and electing leaders capable of crafting laws that genuinely serve the welfare of the people.

The conversation also centered heavily on essential services and economic well-being. Many expressed a desire for improved healthcare and education, particularly highlighting the needs of those living in remote areas. Practical concerns like affordable prices for basic goods and access to free transportation for students were voiced, alongside specific calls to support vulnerable groups, such as ensuring the unique concerns of Indigenous peoples are heard and advocating for the welfare of small vendors in Cotabato City. Even broader issues, like environmental protection, emerged as a reason to participate.

"The responses underscored a generation acutely aware of local challenges and ready to use their vote as a tool to demand specific, meaningful changes – from better services and economic relief to safety and responsive leadership. This palpable energy is what drives us to intensify political education, especially among grassroots communities that need essential knowledge about the elections," IAG stated, reflecting on the participants' engagement.

Although this specific KAS Philippines-supported initiative focuses on youth empowerment, other IAG programs are simultaneously conducting political education initiatives across the BARMM region, reaching women, marginalized sectors, Indigenous groups, and residents of remote communities.