Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed optimism on Friday that the inaugural parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) would promote peace, good governance, and economic development in the region. During a luncheon hosted by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines, Marcos emphasized his commitment to ensuring the success of BARMM as an autonomous government that can effectively deliver services and improve the lives of its residents.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos highlighted a significant decline in violence in the region compared to the organized violence and secessionist movements seen in previous decades. He acknowledged that while some violence persists, it is considerably less than before. Marcos stressed his primary concern is the development of BARMM, aiming to make it a successful autonomous region that provides services and shows economic progress through job creation and improved livelihoods.
Marcos underscored the importance of the elections scheduled for September 14, as they represent the first time the autonomous government will be led by an elected parliament. He noted that these elections would empower stakeholders to voice their opinions on regional issues and enable BARMM to manage its own affairs while remaining part of the national government.
The president also pointed out the growing interest from Muslim countries, Japan, the European Union, and Gulf states in investing in the region once stability is achieved. He emphasized that a credible, transparent, and peaceful election would be a significant step forward for the regional government and could facilitate further development.
Marcos rejected the notion of the situation being a mere 'Mindanao problem,' asserting that it is a 'Philippine problem' and that advancements in Bangsamoro would benefit the entire country. He expressed anticipation for the substantial progress and development expected to occur in BARMM following the successful conduct of the elections.
