BARMM. The Philippine flag stands alongside the flag of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao outside the Office of the Chief Minister in Cotabato City.
Martin San Diego/Rappler
Authorities are also watching for possible spillover violence into BARMM’s neighboring regions
ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – Security forces across the Bangsamoro region and neighboring areas have intensified operations as the autonomous region began its first parliamentary election period, amid fears that election-related violence could spill over beyond its borders.
More than 8,000 police personnel have been deployed across key areas in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), while military and police authorities in cities and provinces in neighboring regions have strengthened checkpoints and monitoring of possible flashpoints.
