MILF Affirms Commitment to Bangsamoro Peace Process as Upcoming BARMM Elections Approach
COTABATO CITY (September 9, 2025) — As the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) gears up for its upcoming elections this October, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to fostering peace and development in the region.
At the recent 23rd Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) meeting in Pasig City, last September 5, Mohagher Iqbal, leader of the MILF and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), highlighted the group’s unwavering dedication to the peace process, emphasizing that this commitment remains steadfast regardless of the election outcomes.
Additionally, the national government, represented by Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, expressed its comprehensive support for BARMM. A substantial allocation of ₱104.57 billion is proposed for the region in the 2026 national budget, which includes a ₱93.98 billion block grant and ₱5 billion earmarked for special development initiatives aimed at rehabilitating conflict-affected areas.
In a positive development, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) and the Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority have signed a memorandum of agreement to enhance safety and efficiency in Hajj operations for Muslim pilgrims from BARMM.
These initiatives signal a collaborative effort between the national and Bangsamoro governments to advance peace, provide essential services, and honor religious values within the community. (BMN/BangsamoroToday)
