Japan committed JPY 234 million (approximately USD 1.5 million) to support electoral capacity-building and socio-economic development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The grant, provided through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is part of the project titled “The Project for Raising Voters’ Awareness and Promoting Digitalization of the Electoral Process in Bangsamoro.”
The project aims to enhance voter participation and transparency in the 2025 Bangsamoro parliamentary elections. It focuses on educating citizens, especially women and vulnerable groups in remote areas, about the role of the Bangsamoro Parliament and the Bangsamoro Electoral Code.
“Our partnership with the COMELEC and the UNDP aims to introduce greater clarity to the electoral process, build up the capacities of concerned stakeholders, and help bring about a more participative voter base through digitalization,” Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya stated.
“Through these collaborative efforts, Japan hopes to be instrumental in fostering involved and informed voters primed for the conduct of this vital democratic exercise,” he added during the signing ceremony.
The project will introduce digital tools to improve information dissemination, enhance data processing efficiency, and support voter education through analytics. This includes providing internet access and dedicated servers to combat misinformation and ensure a smoother flow of information.
Kazuya concluded that the project is grounded in democratic ideals, emphasizing that one of democracy’s core strengths is that “everyone is entitled to a voice.” He highlighted that community participation is essential for an inclusive election and achieving a favorable outcome, especially of peace processes in BARMM.
“As a fellow democracy and proponent of regional peace, Japan’s longtime participation in ongoing developmental efforts is evidence of the great premium it places on preserving the gains of the peace process and continued stability in the BARMM,” Kazuya emphasized.
