The deputation of the military, police, and other law enforcement agencies for the plebiscite in BARRM is a significant step towards maintaining peace and security during this crucial event. President Marcos Jr.’s approval demonstrates his commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the will of the people is respected.
By deputizing the military and police, the COMELEC can rely on their expertise and resources to safeguard the integrity of the plebiscite. These agencies will play a vital role in maintaining law and order, preventing any potential disruptions or acts of violence that could undermine the democratic process.
The creation of eight municipalities in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of BARRM represents a significant milestone in the region’s journey towards self-governance and autonomy. The plebiscite will provide an opportunity for the residents of BARRM to voice their opinions and decide on matters that directly affect their communities.
It is crucial for the plebiscite to be conducted in a fair and transparent manner, ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their ballot freely. By deputizing the military and police, the COMELEC aims to create an environment where voters can exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
Furthermore, the presence of the military and police during the plebiscite will serve as a deterrent to any individuals or groups who may seek to disrupt the process. Their visible presence will send a strong message that any attempts to undermine the integrity of the plebiscite will not be tolerated.
In addition to maintaining security, the deputized agencies will also assist in logistical aspects such as transportation, distribution of ballots, and the overall coordination of the plebiscite. Their expertise and experience in handling large-scale events will undoubtedly contribute to the smooth and efficient conduct of the plebiscite.
President Marcos Jr.’s approval of the deputation of the military, police, and other law enforcement agencies underscores his administration’s commitment to ensuring a fair and peaceful plebiscite in BARRM. This move serves as a testament to the government’s dedication to upholding the principles of democracy and empowering the people to make informed decisions about their future. President Marcos recognized the importance of ensuring a smooth and orderly process for the plebiscites to ratify the creation of the eight municipalities in the SGA in BARRM. With the issuance of Memorandum Order 23, he emphasized the need for collaboration and coordination between the COMELEC, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). This executive order aimed to streamline the efforts of these agencies and maximize their resources to guarantee the successful conduct of the plebiscites.
Under this order, President Marcos instructed the law enforcement agencies and other concerned entities to work hand in hand with the COMELEC in the performance of their duties and functions. This collaboration would involve various aspects, including security arrangements, logistical support, and the implementation of measures to maintain peace and order during the plebiscites. By directing the PNP and AFP to assist the COMELEC, President Marcos recognized the crucial role that these agencies play in ensuring the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.
Furthermore, President Marcos emphasized that the assistance provided by the PNP and AFP should be in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations. This directive aimed to uphold the principles of transparency, fairness, and adherence to legal procedures in the conduct of the plebiscites. By adhering to these guidelines, the government sought to instill public confidence in the plebiscite process and ensure that the voice of the people in the SGA in BARRM is heard and respected.
The issuance of this executive order reflects the government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and facilitating the exercise of the people’s right to self-determination. President Marcos recognized that the successful conduct of the plebiscites is essential in determining the aspirations and desires of the residents in the SGA in BARRM. By providing the necessary assistance and support, the government aimed to create an environment conducive to the free and fair expression of the people’s will.
In conclusion, President Marcos’ Executive Order to assist in the plebiscites for the creation of the eight municipalities in the SGA in BARRM highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and orderly process. By directing the PNP and AFP to collaborate with the COMELEC and adhere to existing laws, rules, and regulations, the government aimed to guarantee the integrity and credibility of the plebiscites. This executive order serves as a testament to the government’s dedication to upholding democratic principles and facilitating the people’s right to self-determination.
The Legal Framework for the Plebiscite
The plebiscite is conducted under the Bangsamoro Autonomy Act (BAA) 41 to 48, which provides for the creation of the municipalities of Pahamuddin, Kadayangan, Nabalawag, Tugunan, Ligawasan, Malidegao, Old Kabakan, and Kapalawan, all in the province of North Cotabato. This legislation establishes the legal framework for the plebiscite, outlining the procedures and guidelines that need to be followed for the successful conduct of the electoral process.
Under the BAA, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is given the authority to oversee the plebiscite. COMELEC is responsible for ensuring that the plebiscite is conducted in a manner that is free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible. To accomplish this, COMELEC is empowered to deputize law enforcement agencies and instrumentalities of the government. This means that they can enlist the support and assistance of various government bodies to maintain law and order during the plebiscite.
Additionally, the BAA requires presidential concurrence for the implementation of the plebiscite. This means that the President of the Philippines needs to give their approval for the plebiscite to proceed. This requirement ensures that the highest level of government is involved in the decision-making process regarding the creation of the municipalities mentioned in the BAA.
The legal framework established by the BAA and overseen by COMELEC aims to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that the plebiscite is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. It provides clear guidelines for the conduct of the electoral process, ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to participate and express their opinions. By involving law enforcement agencies and securing presidential concurrence, the BAA aims to maintain peace and order during the plebiscite, creating an environment conducive to a credible and meaningful exercise of democratic rights.
In conclusion, the legal framework for the plebiscite is crucial in ensuring that the electoral process is conducted in a manner that upholds the principles of democracy. The BAA, along with the involvement of COMELEC, law enforcement agencies, and the President, establishes the necessary guidelines and procedures to ensure a free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible plebiscite. This framework is essential in guaranteeing that the voices of the people are heard and that the outcome of the plebiscite accurately reflects their will.
Details of the Plebiscite
A total of 89,594 registered voters in the SGA are expected to cast their votes in 67 voting hubs. The voting hours will be from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The creation of the eight municipalities will bring about significant changes and opportunities for the communities in the region.
The decision to establish these new municipalities comes after years of careful consideration and planning. The aim is to decentralize power and resources, allowing for more efficient governance and improved service delivery. Each municipality will have its own local government, with elected officials responsible for making decisions that directly impact their respective communities.
One of the main advantages of creating these municipalities is the ability to tailor policies and initiatives to the specific needs of each area. This means that local residents will have a greater say in shaping the future of their communities. They will have the opportunity to elect representatives who understand their unique challenges and can advocate for their interests at the municipal level.
Furthermore, the creation of these municipalities will also lead to increased economic development in the region. With more localized decision-making, there will be a greater focus on attracting investments and fostering entrepreneurship. This, in turn, will create job opportunities and stimulate growth in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.
In addition to the economic benefits, the establishment of these municipalities will also enhance the provision of public services. With local governments having more control over resource allocation, there will be a greater ability to address infrastructure needs, improve healthcare facilities, and enhance educational opportunities. This will result in a higher quality of life for residents and a stronger sense of community pride.
Of course, there will be challenges along the way. The transition to a new governance structure requires careful planning and coordination. There will be a need to ensure that the necessary administrative systems and processes are in place to support the new municipalities. Additionally, there will be a learning curve for both elected officials and residents as they adapt to the changes and navigate the complexities of local governance.
Nevertheless, the overall impact of the creation of these municipalities is expected to be positive. By empowering local communities and promoting grassroots democracy, the plebiscite represents a significant step towards more inclusive and effective governance in the SGA. It is an opportunity for residents to shape their own destinies and build a brighter future for themselves and future generations.
Understanding the New Municipalities
Under the BAA, each of the newly created municipalities will be composed of specific barangays from different existing municipalities. This redistribution of barangays aims to promote better governance and improve the delivery of public services to the communities involved.
Pahamuddin, one of the newly created municipalities, will be composed of barangays Balacayon, Buricain, Datu Binasing, Datu Mantil, Kadingilan, Lower Pangangkalan, Libungan Torreta, Matilac, Patot, Upper Pangangkalan, Lower Baquer, and Simsiman. These barangays were previously part of the municipality of Pigcawayan. By creating Pahamuddin, the government aims to provide more focused attention and resources to these communities, addressing their specific needs and concerns.
Similarly, Kadayangan will be composed of barangays Central Labas, Kapinpilan, Malingao, Mudseng, Sambulawan, Tugal, and Tumbras. These barangays were previously under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Midsayap. With the creation of Kadayangan, the government intends to enhance local governance and ensure effective service delivery to these communities.
Nabalawag, another newly created municipality, will be composed of barangays Damatulan, Kadigasan, Kadingilan, Kudarangan, Nabalawag, Olandang, and Dungguan. These barangays were previously part of the municipalities of Midsayap and Aleosan. The formation of Nabalawag aims to provide these communities with more localized governance and tailored public services.
Old Kabakan, a newly created municipality, will be composed of barangays Buluan, Nangaan, Sanggadong, Simbuhay, Simone, Pedtad, and Tamped. These barangays were previously under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Kabacan. With the establishment of Old Kabakan, the government seeks to improve governance and promote community development in these areas.
Kapalawan, another newly created municipality, will be composed of barangays Kibayao, Kitulaan, Langogan, Manarapan, Nasapian, Pebpoloan, and Tupig. These barangays were previously part of the municipality of Carmen. By creating Kapalawan, the government aims to enhance local governance and ensure the efficient delivery of public services to these communities.
Malidegao, a newly created municipality, will be composed of barangays Balungis, Batulawan, Fort Pikit, Gokotan, Nabundas, Nalapaan, and Nunguan. These barangays were previously under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Pikit. The formation of Malidegao aims to provide these communities with more focused attention and resources, addressing their specific needs and promoting local development.
Tugunan, another newly created municipality, will be composed of barangays Balong, Bualan, Lagunde, Macabual, Macasendeg, Manaulanan, Pamalian, and Panicupan. These barangays were previously part of the municipalities of Pikit and Aleosan. With the creation of Tugunan, the government seeks to improve governance and promote community development in these areas.
Lastly, Ligawasan, a newly created municipality, will be composed of barangays Bagoinged, Barungis, Bulol, Buliok, Gli-Gli, Kabasalan, and Rajamuda. These barangays were previously under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Pikit. By creating Ligawasan, the government aims to provide these communities with more localized governance and tailored public services, addressing their specific needs and concerns.
Overall, the establishment of these new municipalities through the redistribution of barangays is a strategic move by the government to enhance local governance and improve the delivery of public services to these communities. By creating more focused and localized administrations, the government aims to address the unique needs and concerns of each area, promoting community development and ensuring better quality of life for the residents. The approval of the creation of towns in the Bangsamoro region by the BARRM Parliament in August of last year is a significant step towards local governance and community empowerment. This decision highlights the region’s commitment to decentralization and giving power to the people. By granting the communities within the Bangsamoro region the authority to establish their own towns, the government is recognizing the importance of local knowledge and expertise in shaping the future of the region.
The creation of these eight municipalities will undoubtedly bring about positive changes and opportunities for the communities involved. With their newfound autonomy, these towns will have the ability to address their specific needs and priorities, leading to more efficient and effective governance. Local leaders will have the opportunity to implement policies and initiatives that are tailored to the unique circumstances of their communities, fostering development and progress.
Furthermore, this move towards local approval for the creation of towns is a testament to the government’s commitment to inclusivity and participatory democracy. By involving the local communities in the decision-making process, the government is ensuring that the interests and voices of the people are heard and taken into account. This approach not only strengthens the bond between the government and its citizens but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among the people for the development of their own towns.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for all stakeholders to actively participate in the plebiscite. The plebiscite serves as an opportunity for the people to shape the future of the Bangsamoro region by expressing their support or opposition to the creation of these new towns. It is a chance for the citizens to exercise their democratic rights and have a say in the governance of their communities.
To ensure a free, orderly, and credible electoral process, President Marcos Jr. has approved the deputization of the military, police, and other law enforcement agencies. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the plebiscite and ensuring that it is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. By having the necessary security measures in place, the government aims to create an environment where the people can freely express their opinions and cast their votes without fear or intimidation.
In conclusion, the approval of the creation of towns in the Bangsamoro region by the BARRM Parliament signifies a significant milestone in the region’s journey towards local governance and community empowerment. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to inclusivity, participatory democracy, and the overall development of the region. It is imperative for all stakeholders to actively participate in the plebiscite and shape the future of the Bangsamoro region through their votes and engagement in the democratic process.
Source: The Manila Times
