COTABATO CITY — The Moro National Liberation Front–Islamic Command Council (MNLF-ICC) has formally declared its full and active support for Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua, citing his leadership at what it described as a “critical juncture” in the political development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
In a statement issued on December 21, the MNLF-ICC said Macacua’s administration reflects the Bangsamoro people’s aspirations for clean, trustworthy, and effective governance, particularly as the region enters the final phase of its transition ahead of the first parliamentary elections in March 2026.
Signed on December 16 in Pagadian City by MNLF-ICC Chairman Habib Mudjahab Hashim, the declaration underscored the group’s confidence in Macacua’s capacity to lead the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) through the remainder of the transition period and prepare BARMM for a smooth handover to an elected government.
The MNLF-ICC said its support is grounded on both principle and pragmatism, commending the Chief Minister’s “clear and direct” approach to governance and his public stand against corruption—an issue the group said has long hindered the region’s progress. The council noted that Macacua’s push for accountability and transparency aligns with Islamic principles of justice (‘Adl), trust (Amanah), and public responsibility.
The council also highlighted Macacua’s role in bridging long-standing divisions among Bangsamoro factions, particularly between former revolutionary fronts now integrated into the BARMM government. According to the MNLF-ICC, this inclusive approach helps harmonize the gains of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement and the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, ensuring that both frameworks work together for the benefit of the wider Bangsamoro community.
“As the first parliamentary elections approach, the region requires steady, focused, and decisive leadership,” the statement said, adding that Macacua’s leadership offers a “tangible opportunity” to strengthen institutions, deliver essential services, and complete the transition with integrity.
The MNLF-ICC urged peace-loving Bangsamoro and other stakeholders to rally behind the Chief Minister’s administration to advance just laws, effective governance, and lasting peace in the region. The council concluded its statement with a prayer for guidance and wisdom for Macacua as he leads BARMM toward what it called a “peaceful and prosperous future” for the Bangsamoro people.