MANILA (MindaNews/5 May)— The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) clarified on Tuesday that members of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) can proceed with filing their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) for the upcoming BARMM elections despite the party’s pending application for accreditation as a Regional Political Party-Pillar (RPPP). COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia addressed concerns about eligibility, stating that a pending legal case or accreditation status does not prevent individuals from submitting their documentation. He emphasized the importance of clarity to avoid public confusion. Garcia explained that while COMELEC has accredited most political parties, the UBJP remains one of two groups with unresolved issues. A formal opposition has been filed against the UBJP, and the commission is reviewing the party’s response in line with COMELEC rules to ensure due process is upheld. Despite recent holidays and work-from-home arrangements, Garcia expressed optimism for a resolution before the filing period ends on 7 May 2026. Local COMELEC offices have been directed to accept COCs accompanied by a Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA) from the UBJP, allowing the party—the political wing of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)—to participate in the historic first regular parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)
