Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has unveiled the schedule of activities for the inaugural Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE), marking a significant milestone as the region prepares for its historic vote on October 13. The calendar outlines critical periods such as the election and campaign phases, providing a framework for candidates and voters alike.

According to Philippines News Agency, the schedule is detailed in Resolution No. 11132, with the election period commencing on August 14 and concluding on October 28. During this time, strict regulations will be in place, including a ban on carrying firearms or deadly weapons, employing security personnel and bodyguards, suspending elective officials, and transferring civil servants.

The official campaign period for the BPE is set to run from August 28 to October 11. During this period, candidates and their relatives face restrictions on giving donations, using public funds, undertaking public works projects, and offering salary increases to public personnel. Additionally, the eve of the election day will see a prohibition on campaigning and the sale, purchase, or serving of alcoholic beverages.

On the day of the election, the process will move swiftly from the closing of voting precincts to the counting and canvassing of votes. This organized approach is part of Comelec's efforts to ensure a smooth and credible election process.

Despite the release of the calendar, Comelec awaits a decision from the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) regarding the allocation of seven parliamentary seats initially designated for Sulu. The Supreme Court's exclusion of Sulu from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has left these seats in question. The BTA has a deadline until mid-June to communicate its decision on this matter to the election body.