MILF has put a hold on commanders and officials participating in government-led decommissioning and normalization activities, emphasizing the need for prior clearance

COTABATO CITY (August 17, 2025) — The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has issued a directive prohibiting its Front Commanders, Base Commanders, and affiliated agency leaders from participating in any decommissioning and normalization activities conducted by the national government and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) without formal authorization from the MILF leadership.

The order, based on a resolution issued by the MILF Central Committee on July 19, 2025, comes amid the temporary suspension of the fourth and final phase of the decommissioning process for the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).

In its directive, the MILF stressed the importance of observing proper coordination protocols with the national government to maintain discipline and unity within the organization.

The leadership also warned that any violation of the order would be treated as a serious breach of organizational discipline and could result in administrative sanctions or other penalties. “Non-compliance with this Order constitutes a serious breach of command discipline and may be grounds for administrative and disciplinary action,” the memorandum emphasized.

The directive, signed by MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, takes effect immediately on August 16, 2025. (BMN/BangsamoroToday)