Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. held a critical meeting with the top leaders of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to solidify cooperation on the region’s development and ensure a peaceful midterm election in 2025. The discussion, attended by four provincial governors and key government officials, underscored a commitment to maintaining stability in the region amid potential election-related tensions.
The meeting, conducted at the Aguado Residence in Manila, aimed to strengthen coordination between the national government and BARMM’s local leaders. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the gathering highlighted the administration’s support for an inclusive governance approach, which is intended to both support the needs of the Bangsamoro people and address issues unique to BARMM.
BARMM governors present included Hajiman Hataman of Basilan, Yshmael Sali of Tawi-Tawi, Mamintal Adiong of Lanao del Sur, and Abdulraof Macacua of Maguindanao del Norte. They were joined by other prominent officials, such as Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo, Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman, and Mindanao Development Authority Chief Leo Magno. Gubernatorial aspirants Datu Tucao Mastura and Datu Ali Midtimbang also participated, adding their perspectives on BARMM’s evolving political landscape.
In his message, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. emphasized the government’s commitment to “inclusive governance” and sustainable development in the region, which, he said, is pivotal to fostering unity and growth. “This meeting sets the stage for future partnerships that will improve the lives of the Bangsamoro people,” Lagdameo stated.
The consultation addressed key election-related security concerns in light of the upcoming parliamentary elections, which will be BARMM’s first since its creation. The Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have already deployed additional personnel in the region to prevent potential election-related violence and ensure a smooth electoral process. Comelec Chair George Garcia clarified that the heightened security presence is a precautionary measure and should not be misinterpreted as a response to perceived instability.
In response to recent developments, Marcos directed the AFP to uphold electoral integrity by ensuring that the people of BARMM can elect their parliamentary representatives without interference. The President’s engagement with BARMM leaders aims to build consensus on regional governance and strengthen the local government’s role in advancing peace and prosperity.
“The evolving political landscape in BARMM calls for a stronger collaboration among leaders,” Lagdameo noted, reiterating the administration’s goal of working closely with local officials to foster long-term stability in the region.
