COTABATO CITY — April 21, 2025 — The leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has reaffirmed its firm commitment to peace, democracy, and the rule of law, following public concern over remarks attributed to Member of Parliament (MP) Abdullah “Commander Bravo” Macapaar during a political rally in Lanao del Sur.
In a letter addressed to The Mindanao Sentinel, MILF Chief of Staff and United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) Secretary General Abdulraof A. Macacua clarified that Commander Bravo’s reported call for violence at a campaign gathering in Maguing town on April 20 does not reflect the official stance of the MILF.
“The statement suggesting the use of force to secure electoral victory does not reflect the official stance or policy of the MILF leadership,” Macacua wrote. “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.”
Commander Macapaar, a prominent figure in the Bangsamoro struggle and former MILF field commander, reportedly told supporters at the rally to “go to war if necessary” to ensure victory for UBJP candidates in the upcoming May 12 elections — a statement that drew sharp criticism from local leaders, civil society groups, and the wider public. The call came just days after political candidates in the province signed a peace covenant, pledging to maintain order and civility during the election season.
Macacua’s letter sought to dispel fears that the MILF as an organization endorses such rhetoric, emphasizing the group’s ongoing commitment to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) and to protecting the gains of the peace process.
“The MILF remains committed to supporting peaceful, honest, and credible elections,” Macacua stated. “We call on all candidates, supporters, and stakeholders to uphold civility and allow the sovereign will of the people to prevail.”
The Chief Minister’s statement comes as residents across Lanao del Sur express growing concern over the shadow cast by Commander Bravo’s remarks, fearing a resurgence of election-related violence that has historically marred the region’s political landscape.
Macacua concluded his statement with an appeal to all parties to honor the progress made through decades of dialogue and negotiation: “Let this electoral season be a reflection of our maturity as a democratic society and our collective commitment to sustaining peace and justice in the Bangsamoro.”
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is preparing for the May elections, a crucial exercise in the region’s ongoing transition from conflict to self-governance under the framework of the 2014 peace agreement between the Philippine government and the MILF.