Maguindanao del Sur, Philippines — May 18, 2025
Outgoing Governor Bai Mariam Sangki Mangudadatu of Maguindanao del Sur has expressed heartfelt gratitude to her constituents after her unsuccessful bid for re-election. In a public statement, Mangudadatu thanked the people for the opportunity to serve for six years, describing her tenure as a time of great challenge and transformation.
“Alhamdulillah! Though we did not win in numbers, we are victorious in spirit,” Mangudadatu said. “It was a difficult fight, but we stood our ground. Over the past years, we faced many trials and worked hard to reform our province. Slowly but surely, we made progress in Maguindanao del Sur.”
She assured the people that despite being out of office, her heart remains dedicated to serving the province in any way she can. “Even if I no longer hold a position, my heart is still with you. I will continue to help in every way possible,” she added.
Mangudadatu’s husband, former TESDA chief Datu Mohamad “Teng” Mangudadatu, also failed in his gubernatorial run in neighboring Maguindanao del Norte. Both provincial races were won by candidates from the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the political arm of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
A New Political Landscape Emerging
The twin defeats of the Mangudadatus — once among the most influential political families in Maguindanao — mark a significant shift in the region’s political landscape. With both Maguindanao del Sur and del Norte now under UBJP leadership, observers believe this could reshape the balance of power in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
UBJP’s victory reflects not just changing voter preferences but also the growing consolidation of MILF-aligned governance in the post-BOL (Bangsamoro Organic Law) political era. The rise of UBJP-backed candidates signals a stronger mandate for the peace process and aspirations for a more development-focused leadership.
Implications for Peace, Governance, and Development
The Mangudadatus’ exit from power may lead to shifts in local governance priorities. While Bai Mariam emphasized continuity of her programs, the new administration is expected to bring its own strategies — possibly more aligned with BARMM’s broader agenda.
Political analysts note that this transition, if handled inclusively, could improve coordination between local governments and the regional parliament. However, it also comes with challenges, especially in ensuring stability, managing clan rivalries, and meeting development targets in a historically conflict-affected area.
The 2025 elections in Maguindanao serve as a turning point — not just for the Mangudadatus, but for the entire region. Whether this change will bring lasting peace and progress now rests in the hands of the new leaders and the people who entrusted them with their votes.