Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is allowing current members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to stay in office if they intend to participate in the September 2026 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE). According to Comelec Resolution No. 11216 released on Wednesday, BTA members will not be deemed resigned even after filing their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs).

According to Philippines News Agency, the resolution specifies that the incumbent appointed members of the BTA, whose positions are elective by nature, are not considered ipso facto resigned. Additionally, members of the Parliament who hold positions in the Cabinet and other executive offices are also not deemed resigned. However, no individual is permitted to run for the position of district representative in the Bangsamoro Parliament after filing their COCs.

The filing period for district representatives is scheduled from May 5 to 7, 2026. The resolution stipulates that substitution of candidates for district representatives is only allowed in cases of death or disqualification. A substitute for an aspirant who died or was disqualified may file a COC for the affected office on or before May 27, 2026, to ensure their name is included on the official ballots.

Meanwhile, the poll body noted that after the final day for COC filing, Receiving Offices must prepare and deliver a list of candidates for District Representatives in the Bangsamoro Parliament to the Comelec - Law Department by May 8. The tentative list of candidates will be posted on the Comelec website by May 13. Voters in the BPE will be electing a total of 32 Bangsamoro district representatives.