Updated May 19, 2025

 

The 2025 Midterm Elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and Sulu presented a complex landscape of progress and persistent challenges. The Independent Election Monitoring Center (IEMC) has released its preliminary assessment, highlighting key observations that shaped the electoral process.

 

Acknowledging Wins

 

Despite the difficulties, several positive developments were observed:

 

1. Consideration for Vulnerable Sectors

 

A special voting window from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM was implemented for senior citizens, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). While this initiative was largely successful in urban centers, delays in opening polling precincts in peripheral areas limited its effectiveness. Nonetheless, vulnerable voters were prioritized throughout the day.

 

2. Diligence of COMELEC and Poll Workers

 

Election officials demonstrated commitment to ensuring a fair electoral process. Their cooperation with monitoring teams was commendable, though their efficiency was hampered by an overwhelming concentration of tasks requiring immediate attention.

 

3. Controlled Conflict Between State Forces and MILF/MNLF

 

The Memorandum of Understanding between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)/Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) and the Government of the Philippines (GPH) regarding election protocols was largely upheld. This contributed to a more stable election environment.

 

Challenges Faced

 

While progress was evident, several critical issues persisted:

 

1. Vote-Buying and Selling

 

As in previous elections, vote-buying remained rampant. Notable incidents included:

 

  • Maguindanao del Sur: Military apprehended a man distributing named coupons for election-day financial aid.
  • Maguindanao del Norte: Voters received claim stubs convertible to ₱5,000 after casting their votes.
  • Tawi-Tawi: Voters had their IDs stamped after voting straight for a political party in exchange for aid.
  • Lanao del Sur: Alleged flying voters attempted to cast ballots.
  • Maguindanao del Sur: Military intercepted a group carrying deadly weapons and escorting over 50 alleged flying voters.

 

2. Disinformation and Fear Politics

 

Social media disinformation campaigns were widespread, including false reports of candidate withdrawals and fabricated health crises. Additionally, fear politics remained a significant concern, with loose firearms and armed groups intimidating voters and poll workers.

 

Election-Related Violence

 

Several incidents of violence and intimidation were recorded:

 

  • Cotabato City: Successive gunshots injured a police officer and a civilian.
  • Maguindanao del Sur: Armed men sightings led to preemptive evacuations.
  • Basilan: A teacher and her spouse were shot before election day.
  • South Upi: Indigenous voters abstained due to ongoing firefights.
  • Sulu: Brawls between rival supporters disrupted polling precincts.

 

3. Lack of Central Authority and Transparency

 

The absence of a centralized election monitoring command led to confusion regarding complaint submissions. In several areas, election monitors were denied access to polling precincts, particularly in Cotabato City, Basilan, and Maguindanao.

 

4. Election Hotspots

 

Maguindanao del Sur recorded the highest number of election-related incidents, followed by Maguindanao del Norte and Cotabato City. These areas were classified as "Orange" hotspots by COMELEC due to serious armed threats.

 

Urgent Action Points

 

To address these challenges, the IEMC recommends the following measures:

 

  1. Strict enforcement of the gun ban to prevent unauthorized armed groups from disrupting elections.
  2. Proactive ceasefire mechanisms to regulate MILF/BIAF movements.
  3. Immediate intervention by COMELEC, PNP, and AFP to prevent intimidation at polling centers.
  4. Reforms to counter money and fear politics that undermine electoral integrity.
  5. Activation of a central authority for swift decision-making and information sharing.
  6. Clear policies on COMELEC control to prevent misinterpretation and manipulation.

 

Looking Ahead

 

While the 2025 elections showcased improvements in certain areas, the persistence of vote-buying, disinformation, and election-related violence underscores the need for stronger enforcement and reforms. The IEMC will continue its assessment and release a final report in the coming weeks.

 

Read the full report.