The inaugural parliamentary election in the Philippines' Muslim‑majority Bangsamoro region concluded without a clear majority. Two rival parties each secured over 30% of the vote but fell short of the 41 seats needed for control of the 80‑member assembly.

  • Two main parties each captured over 30% of votes
  • No party reached the 41‑seat majority threshold
  • Security forces remain on high alert post‑election

Detailed Election Results

Marawi City, Philippines – On 15 September 2026, the first parliamentary election in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) concluded with a hung parliament. Unofficial counts covering more than 99 % of votes show that the Bangsamoro Federalist Party and the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) each earned just over 30 % of the vote, but neither secured the 41 seats required for a majority in the 80‑member legislature.

Historical Background

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) signed a peace agreement with the Philippine government in 2014, paving the way for BARMM’s autonomous status approved by voters in 2019. The agreement ended decades of armed struggle for independence and self‑governance. In 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr replaced long‑time MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim with former MILF commander Abdulraof Macacua as chief minister, intensifying internal divisions.

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Voting Process and Security Situation

While voting was largely peaceful, election day witnessed multiple shootings that left at least three dead and several injured. Security forces announced they will maintain a heightened presence even after the proclamation of winners. Brigadier General Jemuel Siason, deputy police director of Bangsamoro, said, “We will keep our deployment in place to ensure the security situation remains stable.”

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the hung parliament underscores lingering factionalism within the MILF and tests the resilience of the 2014 peace accord. A coalition government will be essential to maintain stability and to continue disarmament and development programs in the historically conflict‑prone region.

"A coalition in Bangsamoro is not just a political necessity; it is the linchpin for lasting peace and socioeconomic recovery," notes peace scholar Dr. Elena Cruz.

Future Challenges

Abdulraof Macacua acknowledged that a coalition is "an unavoidable situation" after Monday’s vote. Murad Ebrahim, after casting his ballot, expressed openness to alliances, stating, "If the party does not get a majority of the seats, we will look for parties who can be our allies so that we can form a coalition." The willingness of both sides to negotiate offers a glimmer of hope, but the depth of their cooperation remains uncertain.

Did You Know?: The Bangsamoro election marked the first time 64‑year‑old commander Abdullah Macapaar, known as “Commander Bravo,” voted in his life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Could the hung parliament trigger a return to violence?
Answer: While security forces remain vigilant and the 2014 peace pact provides a framework for stability, political deadlock could spark localized tensions if coalition talks stall.

Question 2: When can a coalition government be formed?
Answer: Negotiations are ongoing; experts estimate a coalition framework could emerge within the next two to three weeks.