ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has called on civil society organizations (CSOs) and voter education partners to take an active role in ensuring the success of the elections, slated for 13 October this year.

Comelec Education and Information Acting Director Atty. Frances Carolyn Aguindadao-Arabe, during the consultative meeting in Cotabato City on Tuesday, said, “There are only 83 days left until the first-ever Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections.”

Aguindadao-Arabe also emphasized that the Comelec “understands that this electoral exercise did not come easy.”

“It is rooted in decades of struggle, sacrifice, and the enduring desire of the Bangsamoro people to achieve meaningful autonomy, lasting peace, and inclusive development,” she said.

She also highlighted the international interest in the BARMM’s democratic journey, noting that the parliamentary elections are not only a regional milestone but also a globally significant event.

Additionally, she said, “Observers from across the globe are looking to our people, our institutions, and our civil society to see how democracy is nurtured, practiced, and upheld by a people that has long yearned for it.”

“We appeal to all of you, our regional and field election officials, our partners in governance and advocacy, and all CSOs and media/social media entities — to be ambassadors of meaningful elections for BARMM,” Aguindadao-Arabe said.

During the activity, several CSOs, including the Bangsamoro Information Office, presented their voter education initiatives in support of the upcoming BARMM elections.