ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), through the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education, has tapped 10,512 teachers to serve in the 2025 elections.

Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal said the number represents 53 percent of the teaching workforce in the region. Their names had been submitted to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Iqbal said his office emphasized to the Comelec the commitment of BARMM educators to support the democratic process despite various challenges.

Reports indicated that the low number of poll volunteers in previous elections was due to security and safety concerns.

Ministry information chief Mobarak “Moby” P. Pandi said teachers in the BARMM have long faced threats and intimidation while serving during the elections.

He said that while the Comelec oversees the election, the ministry has to take it upon itself to support and ensure the safety of teachers serving as poll workers.