Former Congressman Esmail “Toto” Mangudadatu is set to make a political comeback after being endorsed by the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) as its official candidate for the Maguindanao del Sur congressional seat in the 2025 elections.
Mangudadatu, a seasoned political figure, expressed gratitude for UBJP’s endorsement, which strengthens his bid to return to Congress. If successful, Mangudadatu has pledged to focus on development and reconciliation efforts in Maguindanao del Sur, aiming to bring sustained progress and peace to the region.
“I am thankful for the trust that UBJP has placed in me, and I am ready to serve the people of Maguindanao del Sur once again,” Mangudadatu said. He also welcomed the growing unity within the province’s political landscape, noting the significance of the alliance between UBJP and the influential Midtimbang clan. This partnership further solidified with the endorsement of Datu sa Talayan Kagi Ali Midtimbang as the UBJP’s gubernatorial candidate for Maguindanao del Sur.
Mangudadatu’s Political Background
Mangudadatu is no stranger to public service. He previously served as Congressman representing the 2nd District of Maguindanao and has held key leadership roles in the province over the years. His career has been marked by a focus on improving governance, infrastructure, and economic development in the region. However, he has also navigated challenging political and security issues, as Maguindanao has long been affected by political rivalries and conflict.
Mangudadatu’s political lineage and leadership have shaped his approach to addressing peace and order issues in the province, making him a prominent figure in the Bangsamoro region’s efforts toward development and reconciliation.
Call for Peaceful Elections
As the 2025 elections approach, Mangudadatu is calling for a peaceful and orderly process, urging fellow politicians to avoid violence during the filing of the Certificate of Candidacy (COC) and the election period. “We must prioritize peace during this critical time for our province. I encourage all candidates and supporters to conduct themselves with respect for the democratic process,” he said.
Maguindanao del Sur, which has historically witnessed political tensions and election-related violence, has made strides toward improved peace and security. Mangudadatu’s focus on reconciliation is seen as crucial for ensuring a more peaceful and stable election season.
With the UBJP’s endorsement and strong political alliances, Mangudadatu is positioning himself as a key figure in the continued development of Maguindanao del Sur, bringing his experience and vision to the forefront of the 2025 congressional race.
