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Senate speeding up deliberations on BARMM polls deferment

January 30, 2025 Camille P. Balagtas 139 views

THE Senate is fast-tracking deliberations on the postponement of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections, citing security concerns and governance adjustments as key reasons for the move.

Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. certified the measure as urgent, allowing for an expedited process.

“May sinertify si Pangulong Marcos na BARMM election postponement. Kin-close na ang interpellation kahapon at inaasahan namin na iyan ay ma-aaprubahan on second reading ngayon,” he stated.

Originally, the proposal sought a one-year postponement, but lawmakers are considering a shorter delay.

“Sa ngayon may amendment yata na gagawing limang buwan ang postponement. Hindi pa rin isang taon, tatlong buwan at isang buwan,” Escudero revealed.

He explained that security officials recommended the delay to ensure that law enforcement agencies could focus on maintaining peace during the national elections before shifting their attention to the BARMM polls.

Security considerations are among the primary reasons behind the proposed delay. “Mas gusto nila makafocus sila at panahon na kinakailangan nila para mag-refocus ng security forces doon sa BARMM area,” Escudero said.

He emphasized that holding the BARMM elections separately from the national elections would prevent the overstretching of government security forces.