MANILA — The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has released detailed guidelines for the registration and accreditation of Regional Parliamentary Political Parties (RPPPs) in the Bangsamoro region that were already granted registration in 2024. The process is part of preparations for the 2026 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections.

 

The guidelines stem from COMELEC Resolution No. 11203, which governs party registration for the 2025–2026 BARMM electoral cycle. The process ensures that previously recognized regional parties remain compliant with updated organizational and membership standards ahead of the parliamentary polls.

 

Filing Schedule

 

COMELEC tentatively set the filing period for March 17–20, 2026, during which eligible political parties must submit a Verified Manifestation in Lieu of Petition for Registration (MLPR) to the Bangsamoro Registrar of Political Parties (BRAC).

 

Key Requirements

 

Parties must reaffirm their earlier registration and provide updated organizational information, including:

  • Confirmation of at least 5,000 registered BARMM members
  • Updated list of officers, chapters, and principal office
  • Any material changes since their 2024 registration
  • A Manifestation of Intent to Participate in the 2026 elections
  • A ranked list of 40 nominees, with at least 30% women and one woman in every three‑nominee block
  • Proof of publication of required documents
  • Payment of a reduced docket fee of ₱600

 

Supporting documents include the previous COMELEC order granting registration, chapter lists, and Certificates of Acceptance of Nomination (CAN‑ANA) for each nominee.

 

Organizational Standards

 

COMELEC reiterates that RPPPs must maintain:

  • Provincial and city chapters in all BARMM provinces and cities
  • Municipal chapters in the majority of municipalities
  • Membership distributed across the region’s provinces and cities

 

Review and Evaluation

 

After filing, BRAC will conduct an initial completeness review, followed by field verification. The Commission En Banc will then evaluate the petition, with the option to order further verification, accept oppositions, or hold hearings.

 

A petition may be granted or denied, with parties allowed to file a motion for reconsideration within three days if denied.