(Photo from the Barmm alliance)
MANILA, Philippines — An alliance of political parties in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm) was formed to promote an orderly and peaceful parliamentary elections in the region next year.
The alliance of the Bangsamoro People’s Party (BPP), the Al Ittihad-UKB Party and the Serbisyong Inklusibo Alyansang Progresibo (SIAP) Party, was formed during a meeting in Makati City on Wednesday.
“As representatives of diverse communities within BARMM, we recognize the importance of solidarity for peace and unity in a region marked by cultural and ethnic diversity,” Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General and Al Ittihad-UKB party stalwart Teng Mangudadatu said in a statement.
“Our alliance stands as a testament to our determination to foster harmony and understanding among all sectors of society, transcending political differences for the greater good of our region,” he added.
Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur Gov. Bombit Adiong of the SIAP Party, explained that the alliance was built upon the principles of inclusive governance and development, peace and unity, and a shared commitment to Barmm and the peace process.
He called on other political parties in Barmm to join the alliance and pledge their commitment to a peaceful 2025 elections.
“By coming together in solidarity, we can create an atmosphere conducive to peaceful and fair elections, ensuring that the voices of all citizens are heard and respected,” Adiong said.
“A peaceful election is the hallmark of a democratic society, reflecting our commitment to the principles of justice, equality and respect for human rights and this very democratic exercise,” he added.
BPP founder and Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman, for his part, stressed that peaceful elections are “the crest of a democratic society and the culmination of the practice of democracy.”
“It is a manifestation of our collective struggle for self-determination and self-governance, wherein every citizen has the right to choose who they want to govern them freely and without fear. It is our duty to safeguard the sacredness of the people’s vote and to ensure that the electoral process remains a true expression of the will of the people,” said Hataman.
Meanwhile, Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan has the responsibility to protect the sanctity of the electoral process and to uphold the integrity of the people’s vote.
“By doing so, we honor the sacrifices of those who have fought for peace and democracy in our region, and we pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all residents of BARMM,” Tan said.