Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur – The 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade, led by Brigadier General Edgar L. Catu, represented Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central and the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division of the Philippine Army, at the Solidarity Iftar hosted by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) on March 26, 2025. The event, held at Camp Datu Wata Uttoh Adzis in Barangay Lower Salbo, marked a significant step in strengthening the partnership between the military and the MNLF in fostering peace and unity in Mindanao.
Notable attendees included Lt. Col. Al Victor C. Burkley, Commanding Officer of the 6th Infantry (Redskin) Battalion; Lt. Col. Christian V. Cabading, Commanding Officer of the 92nd Infantry (Tanglaw Diwa) Battalion; Suharto Utto Adzis, Chairman of the Western Cotabato State Revolutionary Committee of the MNLF; Nur-Ainee Tan Misuri, Head Secretariat of the MNLF Peace Coordinating Committee; Samir Manzanilla, Deputy Director and Division Head for the Transformation Program of the MNLF Peace Process Office under the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity; Datu Qudz Simpal, Vice Chairman for Defense of the MNLF; and Ustadz Faisal Esmael, Chairman of Harrakatud Dawah of the MNLF.
The event coincided with the MNLF’s 57th founding anniversary and served as a platform for strengthening relationships between stakeholders committed to peace and development. Free Iftar meals were provided in observance of Ramadan, underscoring the values of unity and goodwill.
Brig. Gen. Catu highlighted the significance of the occasion, emphasizing the strong partnership between the military and the MNLF. He described the gathering as a testament to resilience and shared commitment, urging continued collaboration for lasting peace and prosperity in Mindanao.
Similarly, Maj. Gen. Gumiran reaffirmed the Philippine Army’s dedication to peace efforts in the region, expressing support for stability and security while promoting development initiatives. He underscored the importance of mutual understanding, respect, and unity in achieving long-term peace.
The Solidarity Iftar reinforced the commitment of both the military and the MNLF to a peaceful and progressive Mindanao, fostering deeper trust and collaboration in the pursuit of lasting harmony in the region.