Bangsamoro Chief Minister Affirms MILF Loyalty
COTABATO CITY, BARMM, Philippines — Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua, who also leads the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), the military wing of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), has pledged unwavering loyalty to the MILF’s top leadership. During a massive peace rally and voters’ education event, the four-word keyphrase Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua was emphasized as a symbol of unity and commitment.
Speaking in Maguindanaon at the Grand Mosque in Barangay Kalanganan II, Macacua clarified that the gathering, which attracted nearly 100,000 BIAF members and supporters, was not meant to create a faction within the MILF. Instead, it aimed to strengthen ties and encourage participation in the upcoming election.
Respecting Chain of Command Amid Tensions
As BIAF chief of staff, Macacua stressed his obedience to the MILF command structure, recognizing MILF chief Al Haj Murad Ebrahim as his superior. Ebrahim had stepped down as Chief Minister in March, with Macacua succeeding him. Despite a notice from Ebrahim the day before the rally stating that the event was unauthorized by MILF leadership and should only be held at Camp Darapanan—the MILF’s main base in Sultan Kudarat town—Macacua proceeded with the gathering.
Officials reported that Macacua described the rally as a platform to educate voters and listen to the voices of suspended MILF base commanders. He also urged BIAF members and their families to vote on October 13 to support the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the MILF’s political party.
Peace Rally Highlights MILF Base Commanders’ Role
Macacua himself is running for a seat in the Bangsamoro Parliament, representing the third parliamentary district of Maguindanao del Norte. Among the attendees was Ustadz Abdulwahid Tundok, commander of the BIAF’s 118th base command, who was suspended for allegedly defying orders not to join government-led decommissioning activities.
In his address, Macacua acknowledged two other suspended field commanders, praising their sacrifices for peace in the Bangsamoro region. Streamers at the event read, “We stand with the base commanders,” underscoring grassroots support.
Suspensions Spark Speculation and Social Media Buzz
Macacua suggested the suspensions might be linked to the commanders’ recent trip to Manila, where they expressed support for him rather than discussing decommissioning. He also mentioned that Tundok was seen mediating a family feud in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur.
According to sources, Ebrahim sent text messages to Macacua asking if he was aware of the commanders’ Manila visit, possibly to consider lifting their suspensions. Macacua responded, “I told Kagi Murad that I am aware they were there to express support for me and nothing about decommissioning issues.”
Grassroots Unaware of Leadership Rift
While Macacua’s tone during the rally was conciliatory, social media portrayed a growing rift within the MILF leadership, pitting him against Ebrahim. A banner at the mosque entrance read, “No to manipulation of (the) MILF central committee,” hinting at internal tensions.
However, community members attending the rally appeared unaware of any factional disputes. One participant said, “We were told to come here for the peace rally. We follow orders, we do not know if our leaders are quarreling, we have no idea,” wearing a white shirt marked ‘BIAF.’
For more news and updates on Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, visit Filipinokami.com.
