The United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the ruling political party in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), has officially endorsed its slate of candidates for Lanao del Sur in the upcoming 2025 elections. The party’s lineup, which includes key figures in local politics, was revealed in a high-profile endorsement ceremony, signaling the direction of leadership in the province for the next electoral cycle.
UBJP’s Slate for Lanao del Sur
At the forefront of the UBJP’s endorsements is Rolan Abdul Rashid “Fiat” A. Macarambon, who has been endorsed for the governorship of Lanao del Sur. He is set to be paired with Marjanie S. M. Macasalong, who will be running for vice governor. These two candidates represent the party’s vision for continuing stability and development in a region that has long been affected by both political and social challenges.
For the congressional seat in the 1st District of Lanao del Sur, UBJP has endorsed Atty. Paisalin Tago, a veteran politician known for his legal background and leadership experience. The full list of candidates for board members, mayors, and municipal officials across both districts reflects a diverse but unified political force, with strong representation from traditional political clans, religious leaders, and emerging leaders in local governance.
A Complex Political Landscape
Lanao del Sur, a province within BARMM, has always been a politically charged area, given its history of clan politics and the presence of long-standing political dynasties. The political landscape of the province is heavily influenced by clan-based alliances, known locally as rido, and the religious influence of the ulama (Islamic scholars), who often play a key role in local governance.
The endorsement of Macarambon and Macasalong reflects UBJP’s strategy to balance both traditional leadership and emerging younger leaders, bridging the gap between the old political order and the region’s growing demand for modernization and reform. Both candidates are seen as experienced in navigating the complexities of Lanao del Sur politics, which often involves managing clan rivalries and ensuring the delicate peace process continues.
Clan Alliances and the Role of UBJP
A notable aspect of this year’s endorsements is the strong presence of influential clans within UBJP’s lineup. Many of the endorsed candidates hail from long-standing political families in Lanao del Sur, such as the Midtimbang, Macarambon, and Papandayan clans, who have held sway over local governance for generations.
The UBJP’s alliance with these powerful families is not new, but it is strategic. By aligning with established political clans, UBJP can ensure broader support across Lanao del Sur’s various municipalities, minimizing the risk of election-related violence and rido that have historically plagued the province. These alliances are also key to ensuring that the political transition within the BARMM framework remains stable.
Focus on Development and Stability
The UBJP candidates have made it clear that their focus will be on fostering development and maintaining peace in Lanao del Sur. With Lanao del Sur being one of the most impoverished provinces in the country, the need for effective governance, infrastructure development, and poverty alleviation are central to the party’s platform. The province’s capital, Marawi City, is still undergoing rehabilitation after the 2017 siege, and rebuilding efforts remain a key priority for local leaders.
Governor Fiat Macarambon has outlined a vision that includes not just physical infrastructure but also social reconciliation. The province, which was deeply affected by the Marawi conflict and ongoing clan disputes, is in need of a governance approach that fosters unity among its diverse populations. Macarambon’s leadership will be pivotal in addressing both economic challenges and security concerns.
Conclusion: The Road to 2025
As Lanao del Sur heads into the 2025 elections, the endorsements made by the UBJP signal a continuation of the political dominance of the party in the region. With a strong slate of candidates and the support of influential political families, the party is well-positioned to maintain control over the province’s leadership.
However, the real challenge will come after the elections, as these leaders work to address the province’s pressing needs—economic development, peace, and the rehabilitation of Marawi. The success of the UBJP-backed candidates will largely depend on their ability to bridge the divides between clans, manage the province’s complex political landscape, and deliver on promises of progress and stability.
