LAMITAN CITY, BASILAN, Philippines — As the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) prepares for its inaugural parliamentary elections, a senior military commander in Basilan called on residents to uphold peace and safeguard their democratic right to vote without fear of violence or political intimidation.
Brig. Gen. Frederick Sales, commander of the Philippine Army’s 1101st Infantry Brigade, issued the appeal Sunday evening, describing the upcoming regional elections as a “defining moment in the Bangsamoro journey toward peace and self-governance.”
Addressing the residents of the island province, Sales emphasized that individual votes carry significant weight in shaping the region’s future, urging voters to exercise their suffrage responsibly.
“To every Basileño—your voice matters. Your vote matters. Your future matters,” Sales said in his message. “As you go to the polls, exercise your right to vote freely, peacefully, and responsibly. Respect the choices of others, reject violence and intimidation, and let us not allow differences in political preferences to divide our communities.”
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Sales reassured the public that troops under the 1101st Infantry Brigade will enforce complete political neutrality throughout the electoral process.
The military top brass noted that security forces are deployed not to influence outcomes or favor political factions, but to maintain order and secure polling centers.
“The Philippine Army, through the 1101st Infantry Brigade, remains committed to serving every Basileño with professionalism, impartiality, and respect,” he stated. “We are here not to favor anyone, but to help ensure a safe, peaceful, and orderly election where every voter can exercise their democratic right without fear.”
Basilan, historically plagued by security challenges and election-related friction, has seen marked security improvements in recent years through joint peace initiatives involving security forces, local government units, and civil society groups.
Reflecting on past peace efforts, Sales rallied local communities to maintain stability during the high-stakes political transition.
“Basilan has chosen peace before. Let us choose peace again,” Sales urged.
“Together, let us make this historic election a testament to the strength, unity, and resilience of the Basilan people.” /cb
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