Lanao del Sur — With the May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections drawing near, the Philippine Army has bolstered its security presence in Lanao del Sur following a spate of election-related violence and incendiary remarks from a high-profile Bangsamoro leader.
The 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division recently deployed two elite Division Reconnaissance Companies — the 23rd DRC from the 2nd Infantry Division and the 72nd DRC from the 7th Infantry Division — to key areas in the province under the operational control of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN. These forces are tasked with securing critical locations, conducting threat assessments, and delivering rapid responses to any security incidents that may arise during the election period.
The military reinforcement comes amid a deteriorating security climate in Lanao del Sur, historically known as an election hotspot. Recent weeks have seen violent incidents, including ambushes and armed confrontations allegedly tied to political rivalries, prompting the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to closely monitor the province.
Concerns were further heightened after a speech by Member of Parliament Abdullah “Commander Bravo” Macapaar, a former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) commander and a prominent figure in the Bangsamoro struggle. Addressing supporters and local allies, Macapaar issued a provocative call to action, urging them to use violence if necessary to secure victory for candidates of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP).
His statement directly contradicted a Peace Covenant signed days earlier by Bangsamoro political leaders, committing to nonviolence and clean elections.
In response to public concern, the MILF leadership issued a firm clarification distancing the organization from Macapaar’s remarks.
“The statement suggesting the use of force to secure electoral victory does not reflect the official stance or policy of the MILF leadership,” said Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim through a statement released by Senior Minister Abdulraof Macacua.
“While we continue to value Commander Bravo’s historical role in the Bangsamoro cause, the MILF’s path today is firmly rooted in peace, democratic engagement, and respect for the rule of law.”
Security officials have welcomed the MILF’s clarification, but the military remains on high alert due to concerns that rogue elements aligned with Macapaar may still act independently to destabilize the electoral process.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN, emphasized the military’s role in preserving peace and order.
“The deployment of the 23rd and 72nd Reconnaissance Companies reflects our serious commitment to ensuring peaceful, honest, and credible elections. We will not tolerate any group or individual threatening our democratic process,” Barroquillo said.
He reaffirmed the military’s cooperation with COMELEC, the Philippine National Police, and local government units and urged citizens to remain vigilant and support law enforcement.
“Security is a shared responsibility. We urge everyone to help protect the integrity of the vote,” he added.
With just days remaining before election day, residents of Lanao del Sur face a tense atmosphere — torn between hope for democratic renewal and the lingering threat of political violence.