COTABATO CITY | July 14, 2026 — Member of Parliament Abdulbasit R. Benito called for a fair, peaceful, and issue-based election campaign ahead of the First Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections on Sept. 14, following the circulation of manipulated images targeting the leadership of the Bangsamoro Government.
Speaking during the regular session of the Bangsamoro Parliament, Benito expressed concern over edited images involving Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof A. Macacua, saying that while constructive criticism is an essential part of democracy, political discourse must always be anchored on truth, fairness, and respect.
He warned that manipulated images, particularly those using religious symbols or degrading portrayals, could spread misinformation, sow division, and undermine public trust as the Bangsamoro prepares for its historic parliamentary elections.
Benito urged political parties, candidates, supporters, vloggers, content creators, and social media users to uphold the principles of fair, peaceful, and issue-based campaigning.
"Let this election be a contest of ideas, programs, competence, and vision—not of fabricated content, personal attacks, or disinformation," Benito said.
After Benito delivered his statement, Presiding Officer Deputy Speaker Atty. Jose Lorena commended the manifestation and encouraged him to convert it into a Parliament Resolution urging all political parties and candidates participating in the First Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections to uphold political maturity and conduct campaigns anchored on truth, respect, and issues rather than black propaganda, misinformation, and mudslinging against political opponents.
During the proceedings, Deputy Floor Leader Atty. Randolph Parcasio moved that Benito's manifestation be referred to the appropriate committee, particularly the Committee on Ethics, for its consideration.
However, Member of Parliament Omar Sema suggested that the manifestation instead be entered into the official Journal of the Bangsamoro Parliament, explaining that the statement neither explicitly nor implicitly mentioned or accused any Member of Parliament. Sema said the manifestation was a general appeal for responsible political discourse and ethical campaigning in the run-up to the parliamentary elections.
The Parliament subsequently took note of the manifestation, which underscored the importance of preserving respectful political engagement and protecting the integrity of the Bangsamoro's first parliamentary elections.