Maguindanao del Norte, September 23, 2024 – In a powerful address at the MILF Consultative Meeting and General Assembly held at Camp Darapanan, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Panel Chair Mohaqer Iqbal outlined a pivotal transformation in the group’s history, marking its shift from an armed revolutionary organization to a democratic social movement. The declaration symbolizes a turning point in the long-standing struggle for Bangsamoro self-determination, peace, and justice.
Before a gathered audience of MILF leaders and members, Iqbal reflected on the sacrifices and battles that shaped the organization’s journey but emphasized that a new chapter is now unfolding. “Today, the nature of our struggle must change,” Iqbal declared. “We will transition from armed revolution to builders of a just and democratic society. Our battlefield is no longer in the marshlands but in the institutions of democracy, in Parliament, in the hearts of our people, and in the halls of governance.”
From Armed Struggle to Democratic Advocacy
The MILF, established in response to decades of oppression and injustice faced by the Bangsamoro people, has long been at the forefront of the fight for autonomy. Its resistance culminated in the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) and the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), representing significant milestones in the group’s history. However, Iqbal acknowledged that this victory was achieved through “the bravery and sacrifice of thousands of our brothers and sisters.”
The MILF’s history is steeped in armed resistance, but today, its focus shifts. “Democracy is the next path of our struggle,” Iqbal said, calling on the movement to embrace new tools of change—namely, ideas, democratic institutions, and the collective will of the Bangsamoro people.
Building Institutions, Not Armies
In his speech, Iqbal outlined the MILF’s vision for the future, where its members would lead social movements rather than military units. “Our battlefields now are the fields of education, development, environment, and political participation. Our soldiers are no longer just fighters but also teachers, community organizers, political party members, civil servants, and leaders in their own right.”
He also highlighted the role of democracy in securing the goals the MILF has long fought for: justice, equality, and self-determination. “Democracy is the collective voice of the Bangsamoro people. It allows us to hold those in power accountable. It gives us the ability to participate in decisions that shape our future.”
A New Kind of Movement
Iqbal was quick to address concerns from those wondering what this transition means for the identity of the MILF. “The MILF is not disappearing. We are transforming,” he assured the assembly. He noted that while the group’s revolutionary past would always remain a part of its narrative, the MILF would now focus on building peace, advocating justice, and championing democracy. The movement’s future would involve not only former combatants but also students, farmers, businesspeople, and civil society leaders.
The speech was not only a call to action for the MILF’s supporters but also a powerful message of hope for the Bangsamoro people. “Our transition to a democratic society is the continuation of our struggle by different means. We are now winning with ballots, not bullets,” Iqbal proclaimed.
Challenges Ahead
Iqbal acknowledged that the transition would not be without its challenges. “There will be people and groups who will actively conspire to defeat us,” he warned, urging vigilance and determination. However, he expressed confidence in the resilience of the Bangsamoro people, reminding them of the many obstacles they have already overcome in their fight for self-determination.
“Our struggle continues,” he said in closing. “Together, we will win the peace.”
With the announcement of this historic transformation, the MILF enters a new phase—one defined by democratic participation and social activism. As the organization transitions from revolution to governance, it is poised to lead the Bangsamoro people toward a future shaped not by conflict, but by cooperation, inclusion, and hope.
