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JV Ejercito: Peace in Mindanao crucial for region's development, presses for BARMM polls postponement

Philippines | National

JV Ejercito: Peace in Mindanao crucial for region's development, presses for BARMM polls postponement

By Hannah L. Torregoza

Senate Committee on Local Government chairman Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito has pressed for the postponement of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections saying it is essential to maintain stability in the region.

The Senate senior deputy majority leader emphasized that peace in Mindanao is crucial for the region's development, and delaying of the BARMM elections will allow more time to ensure peace is solidified.

It would also ensure that any legal and logistical concerns surrounding the region are addressed properly.

"Peace is the prerequisite for development," Ejercito said on Monday, January 27, during plenary interpellations on Senate Bill No. 2942.

Senate Bill No. 2942 seeks to reset the polls to August 11, 2025 or three months from its original date.

"Now that we have already experienced relative peace in Mindanao, now is the time for us to concentrate on putting the different instruments, different factors that are needed for development,” Ejercito said.

“Once that peace is sustained, we can then invest in key infrastructures like the Mindanao Railway to spur growth and spread development,” Ejercito said.

He cited in particular the creation of the Mindanao Railway System, which he said, would be a vital tool in spreading growth across the region.

Ejercito insisted building essential infrastructure will lead to better transportation, job creation, and industrial growth in areas previously neglected due to conflict.

“We will create new growth development areas that will produce jobs and opportunities,” the senator said, further highlighting how peace, combined with infrastructure, would unlock Mindanao’s potential.

Related Tags

jv ejercito barmm polls Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

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