BARMM polls largely peaceful despite 7 suspected election-related incidents

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 14, 2026

Photo Courtesy: BARMM

PHILIPPINES – The first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) proceeded with voting generally peaceful in most areas, despite seven suspected election-related incidents that left three people dead and 15 others injured.

The Philippine National Police said the incidents included three shootings, three explosions and the recovery of an improvised explosive device in Basilan. The shootings were reported in Basilan, Cotabato and Maguindanao del Sur, while the explosions occurred in Cotabato.

Authorities are still investigating the circumstances and possible motives behind the incidents. The Commission on Elections initially assessed that the shootings may have been intended to disrupt the electoral process.

Despite the violence, the PNP said the overall security situation remained under control and voting continued in most monitored areas.

As of Monday, the PNP reported a 97.38 percent voting start status across monitored areas. Four areas, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Sur, Tawi-Tawi and the Special Geographic Area, recorded a full 100 percent start status.

The turnout and generally orderly voting reflect the region’s effort to move forward with its first parliamentary elections despite continuing security challenges.