Zamboanga del Sur Holds Landmark Bangsamoro Consultative Assembly

COTABATO CITY (August 22, 2025) — In a historic first, the 1st Bangsamoro Consultative Assembly gathered hundreds of Moro residents from across Zamboanga del Sur at the Mega Gym in Dao, Pagadian City. The event aimed to strengthen peace, unity, and development by fostering open dialogue between communities and local leaders.

The assembly was graced by BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” A. Macacua, who served as Guest of Honor, along with Governor Divina Grace C. Yu, Representatives Victoria C. Yu (2nd District) and Joseph Kim C. Yu (1st District), former Governor Victor J. Yu, and key officials from the AFP, PNP, BFP, Coast Guard, and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU).

In his keynote speech, Chief Minister Macacua highlighted the importance of staying connected with Bangsamoro communities beyond the core BARMM territory. While acknowledging the challenges of the ongoing transition, he reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive progress.

“The peace and development that we nurture inside the Bangsamoro region must also extend to our neighboring communities,” Macacua said. “This Consultative Assembly is a symbol that our destinies are connected, (Ang Consultative Assembly na ito ay simbolo na magkakaugnay ang ating kapalaran),” he added.

He also recognized the support of the Bangsamoro people in Zamboanga del Sur in the establishment of BARMM and shared key accomplishments since the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

Joining the assembly were Deputy Executive Quraish Lancap, Executive Secretary Ramla Manguda, and Executive Director Noron S. Andan of the Office for the Other Bangsamoro Communities (OOBC).

Also in attendance was Sheikh Esmael Calalagan, Mufti of Zamboanga del Sur and President of the Association for Islamic Development (AID), who voiced his support for the initiative, stressing its importance in promoting unity among Muslim communities.

As a gesture of solidarity, over 2,000 sacks of rice were distributed to Bangsamoro families in the province.

Governor Yu expressed her full support for the program, reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to inclusive growth and interfaith harmony.

The assembly was spearheaded by the Zamboanga del Sur Bangsamoro Provincial Consultative Council (BPCC), led by Executive Assistant II Mustapha P. Piang, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance communication and cooperation with Moro communities and promote sustainable peace and development in the province. (PR, BMN/BangsamoroToday)