Mohagher Iqbal: The Architect of Peace in BARMM
Amidst the deep-seated mistrust and complex history of conflict in Mindanao, Mohagher M. Iqbal emerged as a pivotal figure, whose unwavering dedication profoundly shaped the peace negotiations between the Philippine Government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Serving as the MILF’s chief negotiator for over a decade and facing nine different GPH peace panel chiefs, Iqbal became synonymous with the patient, principled, and persistent pursuit of a political settlement.
Iqbal’s commitment was first evident in his remarkable consistency and longevity. He steered the MILF panel through countless formal and informal talks, navigating significant setbacks like the failed Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) in 2008. Despite immense pressure and the ever-present risk of collapse, he remained the constant face of the MILF’s dedication to dialogue, providing crucial continuity that built fragile trust over time.
His dedication also manifested in intellectual rigor and strategic patience. Iqbal possessed a deep understanding of the conflict’s roots and the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people. He articulated the MILF’s position on self-governance, ancestral domain, and security with clarity and conviction, yet demonstrated pragmatism and flexibility when necessary. He meticulously engaged with complex legal and political frameworks, ensuring the negotiations addressed substantive issues over mere symbolism, always focused on a durable solution.
Furthermore, Iqbal displayed exceptional resilience under immense pressure. He balanced the high expectations of his constituency with the need for compromise, often facing criticism from hardliners on both sides. Throughout marathon sessions and moments of crisis, he maintained a calm, measured demeanor, prioritizing the ultimate goal of peace over short-term political wins. His quiet determination and willingness to return to the table, even after profound disappointments, were hallmarks of his commitment.
Ultimately, Iqbal’s dedication bore fruit. He was instrumental in crafting the landmark 2012 Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). These agreements laid the foundational blueprint for the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) and the subsequent establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). His tireless advocacy continued beyond the signing, as he worked to translate the agreements into reality and foster wider understanding.
Mohagher Iqbal’s legacy lies in his steadfast navigation of one of Asia’s longest-running conflicts towards a political solution. His dedication—characterized by unwavering presence, intellectual depth, strategic patience, and resilient calm—was the indispensable compass that guided the GPH and MILF through turbulent waters towards the shores of negotiated peace. He exemplified the profound commitment required to transform the aspiration for peace into a tangible, if still evolving, reality. (Haron Salah & Taher Solaiman, BMN/BangsamoroToday)
