MUNAI, Lanao del Norte — In a clear show of unity for peace in Mindanao, Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, visited Camp Bilal in Barangay Tamparan, Munai, on September 12, 2025, where he was warmly received by Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leader Commander Abdullah “Bravo” Macapaar.
The visit underscored the shared commitment of both the military and the MILF to sustain the gains of the Bangsamoro Normalization Track and to ensure that the upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections proceed peacefully and credibly.
Although the communities of Commander Bravo in Lanao del Norte are not part of the BARMM electoral process, he emphasized their dedication to regional stability and preventing any disruptions that could affect the polls.
“We reaffirm our pledge to uphold the gains of the peace process and to prevent violence or intimidation that could undermine peace in nearby areas. The MILF stands ready to coordinate with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bangsamoro leadership, and local stakeholders to ensure that stability is maintained during the elections,” said Macapaar.
For his part, Maj. Gen. Barroquillo stressed the Army’s proactive role in safeguarding peace and supporting normalization efforts, pointing out that the integrity of the elections depends not only on polling centers within BARMM but also on maintaining peace in surrounding areas.
“The purpose of today’s engagement is clear: to reinforce the gains of normalization, ensure the safety of communities, and guarantee that the BARMM elections can proceed without external disruption,” Barroquillo said.
He assured that the Army’s presence will remain visible but neutral, anchored on partnership and impartiality: “Our role is to deter violence, protect communities, and support civil authorities in the conduct of elections while respecting humanitarian and human rights principles. We will maintain visible but neutral security presences, support rapid-response capabilities, and coordinate closely with MILF counterparts and other stakeholders to prevent any incidents that could disrupt the electoral process.”
Both leaders agreed to sustain dialogue and cooperation throughout the pre-election, election, and post-election periods to address security concerns promptly and preserve the stability built through years of peacebuilding.
The visit highlights the Tabak Division’s proactive support for national peace strategies under the Bangsamoro Normalization Track, assuring the public that the Armed Forces of the Philippines remains a steadfast partner in securing the democratic process and sustaining peace in Mindanao.