The military deployed over 1,000 troops in Basilan days before the first 2026 Bangsamoro Parliamentary election on Sept. 14

"The arrival of the augmentation forces further strengthened the Brigade’s preparations for the 2026 Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Parliamentary Elections (BPE), with approximately 1,700 personnel set to be deployed in support of election security operations across Basilan," Maj. Genesis Dizon of the 1th Infantry Division said on Thursday.

Dizon said the 1101st Infantry Brigade, led by Brig. Gen. Frederick Sales, welcomed personnel from the 100th Infantry Battalion, 102nd Division Reconnaissance Company, and 111st Division Reconnaissance Company during a ceremony held at the Magwakit Training Center, Barangay Colonia, Lamitan City, Basilan on Wednesday.

In his message, Sales reminded all personnel to strictly adhere to the mandate of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, observe established election security procedures, and maintain close coordination with the Commission on Elections, Philippine National Police, local government units, and other concerned stakeholders.

“We have prepared long enough for this. We deliberately planned for this, and we are ready to perform to the best of our abilities,” he said, underscoring the AFP’s commitment to helping ensure a secure, credible, peaceful, and orderly electoral process.

Dizon said the additional forces will reinforce ongoing security efforts in their respective areas of deployment and "contribute to maintaining an environment where every Basileño can exercise the right to vote freely, safely, and without fear." Robina Asido/PHS