BIAF-MILF Reinforces Commitment to Humanitarian Principles Through Geneva Call Partnership
COTABATO CITY (March 5, 2025) — Von Al Haq, spokesperson for the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF-MILF) and Senior Minister of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), reaffirmed their commitment with Geneva Call to promote humanitarian principles and improve the protection of communities from local conflict.
The gathering took place at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte, on Saturday, March 1, 2025, and was attended by Brigade Commanders along with their respective staff and other BIAF officers. Al Haq facilitated the session, which aimed to enhance the understanding of international humanitarian law (IHL), Protection, and Human Rights among BIAF officers as part of ongoing educational initiatives to uphold human rights within the context of armed conflict.
The education awareness program on humanitarian principles and local norms for community protection is a continuous program conducted by the Geneva Call in partnership with the MILF.
In an interview, Al Haq expressed that educating BIAF members about the peace process and the electoral system in Bangsamoro is a current priority. He commended the Bangsamoro Multimedia Network (BMN) for facilitating a voter education campaign across six MILF camps and, expressed hope for ongoing collaborations to enhance electoral awareness in anticipation of the upcoming first Bangsamoro Parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro region scheduled for October 13, 2025.
Engr. Mohajirin T. Ali, MNSA noted the significance of the engagement with international law, describing it as a vital aspect of the MILF’s identity. He emphasized the protection this agreement affords to the MILF’s reputation, adding that it plays a crucial role in the peace process with the Government of the Philippines, which is gaining recognition in the global arena.
“The engagement to International Law and human rights through the Geneva Call should not be forgotten as one of the strong engagements in the international community in which there was a signed document agreement between the two parties to solidify the engagement in IHL,” Ali said.
A representative from Geneva Call highlighted their ongoing efforts to support the MILF’s initiatives towards civilian protection and securing peaceful communities during this transition period. Geneva Call’s role includes educating the BIAF on the rules of engagement during conflict, thereby ensuring adherence to international humanitarian standards and local protection norms.
As part of the educational program, Ustadh Mutalib Guiamad, an Islamic scholar, provided insight into the principles of engagement during the war from an Islamic perspective. He illustrated how the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) and his companions emphasized the protection of civilians and animals and the rights of captives, reinforcing a model of peace rooted in Islamic teachings.
The event underscored the BIAF’s dedication to upholding humanitarian values while continuing its advocacy for peace and recognition within the international community. (Faydiyah Samanodi Akmad, BMN/BangsamoroToday)
