Safety Notice regarding the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections (Sept. 14)
The first-ever parliamentary elections for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Philippines, are scheduled to take place on Monday, September 14.
In preparation for the elections, the Philippine government is strengthening security measures, including the large-scale deployment of police and military personnel to ensure a peaceful and safe voting process. As of September 10, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has deployed a total of 9,821 officers to the BARMM region. Security has been tightened at 4,313 polling stations, as well as at Commission on Elections (COMELEC) offices, key government buildings, and checkpoints. Additionally, a Quick Response Force (QRF) of 2,120 personnel is on standby for any emergencies.
Meanwhile, based on past incidents of election-related violence, COMELEC has designated 108 areas within BARMM as "Areas of Concern" and is monitoring them closely. Security concerns are particularly elevated in parts of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, and Basilan.
With recent reports suggesting the potential for armed conflict stemming from political and regional tensions ahead of the elections, continued vigilance regarding the security situation in certain areas is required. Accordingly, Korean nationals planning to visit or currently residing in the BARMM region before or after the elections are advised to take note of the following precautions:
< Safety Guidelines >
1. Please refrain from unnecessary travel or movement within the BARMM region before and after the elections. In particular, avoid visiting areas of security concern and locations where election-related events are being held.
2. Avoid approaching polling stations, election campaign sites, rallies, and government facilities. Please ensure you do not participate in any local political activities or demonstrations.
3. Cooperate fully with any inspections or controls by the Philippine police or military while traveling, and ensure you carry necessary identification documents at all times.
4. Stay informed by monitoring local news and official security announcements from the Philippine government to prepare for potential incidents such as political clashes, armed conflicts, or shootings before and after the elections.
5. Please refrain from visiting areas with high security concerns, such as Lanao del Sur and the Maguindanao provinces.
6. Zamboanga, Sulu, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi are designated as travel-ban areas. Visiting or staying in these areas without government authorization may result in imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to 10 million KRW under the Passport Act.
Emergency Contacts
Consular Call Center (24/7): +82-2-3210-0404
Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines: +63-917-817-5703
Consular Office of the Republic of Korea in Cebu: +63-32-231-1516~9
Source: Overseas Safety Information, Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines · Posted on 2026-09-11 · Korea Open Government License Type 1 (Attribution required)
https://ph.mofa.go.kr/ph-ko/brd/m_27094/view.do?seq=1346442
