MARAWI CITY — Marking a milestone in its pursuit of self-determination, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) held its first regular parliamentary elections, generally peaceful across Lanao del Sur on Monday.
In a press briefing at the Capitol Complex here, Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Ziaur-Rahman “Zia” A. Adiong stressed the polls signal a pivotal shift from an interim government to a directly mandated leadership.
Monitors observed zero untoward incidents in Marawi City and Lanao del Sur as of 1:30 p.m., underscoring the smooth conduct of the historic polls in the province.
READ: Lanao del Sur: Over 720,000 set to cast ballots in BARMM’s top battleground
A shift in governance
The election represents a peaceful transfer of power and a critical test for the winners to govern through a democratic mandate.
Adiong said that the 80-seat parliament is structured to move away from personality politics and ensure broader representation through proportional party representation (40 seats), single-district representation (32 seats) and sectoral representation (eight seats).
The final balance of power will not be determined immediately at the ballot box.
Adiong emphasized that alliances and coalitions will be negotiated only after the parliament convenes.
“Once seated, the Members of Parliament will elect the Chief Minister and form the government, while the opposition will naturally coalesce into a shadow cabinet to provide legislative checks and balances,” he told reporters.
READ: BARMM elections: 98.14% of polling centers start voting — PNP
Turnout expectations
While early ground observations sparked speculation of low voter turnout, Adiong dismissed these claims.
“We aren’t actually done with the voting. The voting is still ongoing. So we cannot say there is a low turnout right now until such time that the polling precincts close and the results are tabulated,” Adiong said.
He explained that parliamentary polls often appear less visibly competitive on the ground compared to traditional ones. This is because several positions are being contested during local and presidential elections, including governors, district representatives, mayors, councilors, and national candidates, which could become personal.
He added: “That’s why you really expect… the turnout will really not be as high compared to local and national elections where you are to vote not just for local candidates but even national candidates.”
After the polls, Adiong said election winners should immediately get to work in the interest of the Bangsamoro people.
“Today is for politics. After this election, there should be no more politics. Unity should begin, and shared responsibility should begin. Whoever wins this election should show that the interest of the public remains the top priority,” Adiong told the Inquirer.
READ: Polls in Marawi City mark orderly start amid early queues
He said he was pleased to see many voters going to polling precincts to cast their ballots.
“This will be the foundation of the regular BARMM government, which will enable it to exercise its true autonomy,” he said./coa
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