Australia reaffirms its strong support for the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on 14 September 2026.
A senior embassy team visited Cotabato City this week from 1-3 September to examine election preparations. During their three-day visit, the team met election and security officials, civil society organisations and election monitoring groups working to support peaceful, inclusive and credible elections. Australia supports these efforts through its broader development investment in the BARMM and conflict-affected Mindanao (PHP 2.4 billion, 2023 – 2028).
The parliamentary elections mark an important milestone in the Bangsamoro peace process and the transition to elected regional governance. Civil society organisations, election monitors and community leaders play an important role in promoting transparency, accountability and public confidence in the electoral process.
Australia has supported peacebuilding and development in Mindanao for three decades, including for the implementation of the peace process, governance reforms and community-based peacebuilding initiatives.
Through its development partnership, Australia works with government institutions, civil society organisations and local communities to support long-term peace, stability and inclusive development in the BARMM.
Quotes attributable to Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, HE Marc Innes-Brown
“Australia strongly supports efforts to ensure the BARMM elections are peaceful, inclusive and credible.
“These elections are an important opportunity for the Bangsamoro people to shape their region’s future through democratic participation.
“Australia remains committed to its longstanding partnership with the Bangsamoro people and looks forward to continuing to support peace, good governance and development in the region”.
