Makati city: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is making preparations in case heavy rains occur during the holding of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections (BPE) on September 14. The Comelec can postpone the elections due to a natural calamity.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Comelec has the authority under the Omnibus Election Code to postpone elections in cases of force majeure, which includes typhoons and flooding. Comelec Chairperson George Garcia explained that while they can opt not to hold the election as scheduled, it must be conducted within 30 days thereafter. This is an option currently under consideration given the unpredictable weather conditions.

During a press briefing at the Media Walkthrough of the Data Centers 1 and 2 for the BPE in Makati City, Garcia expressed concern about schools designated as polling places, as these areas are prone to severe flooding. Plans are being made to relocate voting centers, if necessary, to ensure that citizens can still cast their votes despite adverse weather conditions.

Garcia assured that data transmission will not be hindered by rain, thanks to the high-quality Starlink systems being used. He emphasized that they are confident in transmitting results even amid typhoons and rain. He also mentioned that election equipment is safeguarded in Comelec warehouses, with only a slight concern regarding their deployment to municipalities. Municipal treasurers have been advised to ensure that storage facilities for these materials are adequate.

The deployment of automated counting machines (ACMs), laptops, and other election paraphernalia to the Offices of Election Officer is set to start in the third week of August. Meanwhile, transmission kits, ACM external batteries, and ballot boxes are already stationed in regional hubs, awaiting dispatch to local poll body offices. Current Comelec data indicates there are 2,393,202 registered voters in the BARMM.