PRESIDENTIAL Peace Adviser Mel Senen Sarmiento expressed optimism that the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in September will be peaceful.
Sarmiento said the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (Opapru) is coordinating ground security following clear directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“In the security cluster, in a way, it is a good thing that it doesn't coincide with the national elections. Right now, the focus is on ensuring security since it involves only five provinces,” Sarmiento said in a press conference in Pasig City on Friday.
Sarmiento described the upcoming elections as a defining moment for the region.
He highlighted the importance of electing capable leaders who will guide the region toward stability, development, and inclusive governance.
PRESIDENTIAL Peace Adviser Mel Senen Sarmiento expressed optimism that the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in September will be peaceful.
Sarmiento said the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (Opapru) is coordinating ground security following clear directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“In the security cluster, in a way, it is a good thing that it doesn't coincide with the national elections. Right now, the focus is on ensuring security since it involves only five provinces,” Sarmiento said in a press conference in Pasig City on Friday.
Sarmiento described the upcoming elections as a defining moment for the region.
He highlighted the importance of electing capable leaders who will guide the region toward stability, development, and inclusive governance.
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"Through this democratic exercise, we shall complete the political track and empower the Bangsamoro people to elect their chosen leaders," he said.
He noted that early monitoring feedback indicated a smooth first day of the campaign period.
"Through this democratic exercise, we shall complete the political track and empower the Bangsamoro people to elect their chosen leaders," Sarmiento said.
He added that Opapru's continued engagement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front is part of the government's commitment to fulfilling its obligations under various peace agreements.
Sarmiento, who marked his first 100 days in office, highlighted the government's broader efforts to sustain peace and development in the region.
He said that the government is pushing for the passage of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Bill, a key aspect of the Bangsamoro peace process that aims to address historical injustices and foster healing among communities affected by decades of conflict.
“Peace is a process that cannot be done overnight. Our agency remains firmly committed to doing these things right. True and lasting peace cannot be rushed. It requires years of listening, understanding, and rebuilding together,” he added.
