THE Office of the President has affirmed that the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) will continue to function as the legitimate governing body of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm).
This decision follows the Supreme Court’s ruling to postpone the scheduled Oct. 13, 2025, Barmm elections to a date no later than March 31, 2026.
Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo said that the move validates Malacañang’s commitment to ensuring continuity of governance, legal stability, and an orderly transition in the Bangsamoro region.
Lagdameo pointed out that the decision aligns with the Bangsamoro Organic Law (Republic Act No. 11054), Republic Act No. 12123, and the Supreme Court’s ruling in Ali v. Comelec.
“The authority to make changes in the composition of the BTA during the transition remains with the Office of the President, as provided by law,” Lagdameo’s statement reads in part.
The Office of the President stated that no formal reappointment is necessary, as current members continue to hold office by operation of law until replaced or succeeded.
Lagdameo underscored that the BTA will continue to exercise full powers and authority during the extended transition period until new officials are duly elected or appointed.
This setup, he said, guarantees that the Bangsamoro government can sustain peace, self-governance, and inclusive development.
“The President remains committed to supporting the Bangsamoro’s journey toward lasting peace and progress,” Lagdameo added.
Malacañang reiterated that the extension aims to prevent any governance vacuum in the Barmm and uphold the region's momentum toward political and economic stability.
