MANILA – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) said it is ready to provide all assistance needed to ensure the success of the first-ever parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the agency remains committed to working with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Bangsamoro government to address any security or administrative challenges.

“OPAPRU stands ready to provide all necessary support to ensure the successful conduct of the polls,” Galvez said in a statement late Thursday.

He described the upcoming regional polls as a “landmark event” for the Philippines and noted that the transition from an appointed and interim authority to a fully elected parliament is a cornerstone of lasting peace in the region.

Galvez stressed that a legislated election date is essential to keeping the Bangsamoro democratic transition on track.

“It is our firm position that the elections must proceed as soon as possible within the year,” he said, adding that passing a law setting this date is critical to fulfilling the political track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

He also expressed support for Bill 7236, filed in the House of Representatives, which seeks to set the date for the first regular parliamentary elections in the BARMM.

“OPAPRU defers to the wisdom of Congress, the Comelec, and other constitutional institutions in determining the final timeline for these elections,” Galvez said.