Official Statement of Notre Dame University on the Conduct of the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections
ย
Grounded in its mission to foster genuine social transformation in Mindanao, Notre Dame University adds its voice to the ever-increasing chorus calling for a successful, peaceful, and credible conduct of the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections scheduled for October 13, 2025.
ย
This election represents a long-awaited milestone in the regionโs journey toward a just and lasting peace. It is hoped to finally bring a regime of a truly elected regional government, where legitimacy lies with the people and accountability is owed directly to them. It is seen as an important stepping stone away from imposed governance and superficial commitment to autonomy. It is a yet-to-be-fulfilled promise of a nation that deeply recognizes the fragmentedness of its colonial past and is steadfastly working towards healing and reconciliation among its own peoples.
ย
We have already witnessed how the delays in the conduct of the elections risked deepening the political polarities within the region. Recent developments have also raised significant concerns about whether the elections will continue as scheduled.
ย
We therefore call on all responsible agencies and relevant authorities to seek the most expedient solution to the legal challenges confronting the conduct of the elections, ensuring that no more delay other than what is extremely necessary, will once again curtail the peopleโs right to suffrage.
ย
We specifically call on the national government to fulfill its mandate to the Bangsamoro with impartiality and integrity, providing all the necessary support and resources for the conduct of the elections without interference.
ย
We also call upon the Bangsamoro leadership and political parties to demonstrate fairness, reject violence, coercion, and any tactic that compromises the integrity of the vote, and to cooperate fully with electoral authorities to ensure a smooth and peaceful conduct of the elections.
ย
We call upon our companions in the private sector and other civil society organizations to become vigilant partners in safeguarding the sanctity of the vote, and to help foster a well-informed voting citizenry by providing spaces where proposed platforms of governance are critically and conscientiously evaluated.
ย
We call upon the candidates to engage in fair and honest campaigning, to be truthful to the electorate, to desist from improper speech and unlawful activities, and to encourage their supporters to maintain respect and tolerance, especially for others who do not share the same political beliefs.
ย
Lastly, we call upon the voters to seize this moment, to vote with conscience and courage, to look beyond short-term inducements and consider the long-term future of their children and their homeland, and to elect leaders who embody competence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the common good.
ย
Notre Dame University believes in the hard-won fruit of the struggle that is the Bangsamoro. We pray for peace and offer our resources and prayers to support this historic transition. Let us all work together to make the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections a resounding success and a beacon of hope for democratic governance.