Those who plan to "derail or threaten" the conduct of the first Bangsamoro elections will be up against the national government, President Marcos said.
Marcos made the stern warning during the 10th commemoration of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) on Monday, April 29.
"Let this also serve as a warning to those who may plan to threaten and derail this upcoming election, huwag n'yo nang isipin ‘yan dahil ang kakalabanin na ninyo ay ang pamahalaan (do not think about it because you will be up against the government if you do so)," Marcos said in his speech.
"Instead, channel your energy to help build productive and thriving communities where citizens are offered wide livelihood opportunities and healthy living spaces," he added.
The President stated this assured the Bangsamoro of a peaceful election in May 2025.
"As your President, I reassure that you will have an honest, orderly, and credible conduct of the electoral process," he said.
The Chief Executive also reminded the Bangsamoro to exercise their right to suffrage in the forthcoming first BARMM elections, stressing that it will be the fulfillment of their democratic right "to realize and achieve meaningful autonomy."
"I urge you, safeguard those rights, empower yourselves, take part in our shared task of nation-building," he said.
Marcos also expressed hope that the candidates in the upcoming elections aspire to prioritize the Bangsamoro over their own selves.
"Hindi lamang ako umaasa na malinis at payapa ang halalang ito, pero higit sa lahat, ang bawat kandidato ay tangan ang prinsipyo ng Bangsamoro--- ang Bangsamoro Muna Bago Sarili. At titindig sa adhikain na Better Bangsa Moro (I am not only hoping for a clean and peaceful elections but above all, may all candidates uphold the principle of the Bangsamoro—Bangsamoro first before yourselves. And will stand up for the aspirations of the Bangsamoro)," he said.
Marcos graced the 10th anniversary celebration of the CAB at Camp Iranun in the Municipality of Barira, Maguindanao del Norte.