Carmen, North Cotabato – In a bid to ensure a smooth, safe, and peaceful election in their area of responsibility, the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central, under the leadership of Brigadier General Donald M. Gumiran, successfully conducted a Political Candidates’ Forum for mayoralty and vice mayoralty candidates in the newly established towns of Tugunan, Kapalawan, and Old Kaabakan in the Special Geographic Area of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (SGA-BARMM). The forum took place on February 19, 2025, at the Headquarters of the 602nd Infantry (Liberator) Brigade, Camp Lucero, Carmen, North Cotabato.
The event was spearheaded by the 602nd Infantry Brigade, led by Colonel Ricky P. Bunayog, along with Atty. Nasroding M. Mustapha, Acting Regional Election Attorney. They were joined by Atty. Joyce P. Moran, Election Officer IV of BARMM; Lieutenant Colonel Erwin Jay E. Dumaghan, Commander of the 40th Infantry Battalion; and Lieutenant Colonel Roden R. Orbon, Spokesperson and Commander of the 6th Civil-Military Operations (Kasangga) Battalion.
Other key participants included Police Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Roy M. Subsuban, Deputy Provincial Director for Administration of Maguindanao del Norte; Mr. Khomaide U. Abo of the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS); Mr. Muamar Sharif Alim from the Non-Violent Peace Force; and members of the media.
The forum concluded with a Pledge of Commitment and the Signing of the Peace Covenant, where all candidates affirmed their commitment to working together to ensure a secure and peaceful election.
Mayoralty Candidates in SGA-BARMM
Tugunan:
- Mr. Abdullah Pungot Abas
- Mr. Misuari Mangansakan
- Mr. Mama Kong Kong
- Mr. Sindato M. Karim
Kapalawan:
- Mr. Abdullah Hamza
- Mr. Norman C. Inalang
Old Kaabakan:
- Mr. Mama Sudang Mantawin
- Mr. Toniks Sudang Enalang
- Mr. Jabid Guibar
- Mr. Datu Musa Lumanbas
- Mr. Demat Pedtamanan
During his speech, Colonel Bunayog encouraged citizens and candidates to continue cooperating with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), the military, and the police to maintain security and peace throughout the election period.