BARMM Chief Rejects Education Minister’s Courtesy Resignation
COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua has firmly rejected the courtesy resignation of Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal. This decision dispels earlier rumors suggesting that Iqbal was being removed from the regional government.
In a letter addressed to Iqbal dated July 14 and released publicly on July 15, Macacua explained that his decision to decline the courtesy resignation, which Iqbal submitted on June 30, was made after “careful review and evaluation.” The Chief Minister instructed Iqbal to continue his duties and responsibilities as minister without interruption.
Context Behind Courtesy Resignations in BARMM
Earlier, on June 23, Macacua ordered all BARMM office heads to submit unqualified courtesy resignations. This directive aimed to address “serious and grave complaints” and to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery as the region approaches a critical phase in its transition period.
The BARMM government, currently led by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), is preparing to transfer authority to an elected leadership by the end of October this year. This transition marks an important milestone in the region’s political development.
Decisions on Courtesy Resignations Across BARMM
Out of approximately 40 ministers, deputy ministers, directors general, and department heads who submitted courtesy resignations, seven have been told by Macacua that their resignations will not be accepted. Alongside Education Minister Iqbal, who is among the senior MILF leaders in the transition government, are Akmad Brahim (Environment, Natural Resources and Energy), Ubaida Pacasem (Finance, Budget and Management), Kadil Sinolinding Jr. (Health), Muslimin Sema (Labor), Raissa Jajurie (Social Services and Development), Jehan Usop (Science and Technology acting minister), and Mohammad Pasigan (Bangsamoro Board of Investments Chairman).
Macacua emphasized that his decisions were guided by “clear criteria to determine competence, experience, overall physical fitness and above all adherence to the moral governance agenda.” These standards helped him make objective choices essential for maintaining effective and efficient service as the transition period nears completion.
Positive Reactions and Next Steps
The choice to retain Iqbal as education chief received praise, especially from MILF supporters who saw it as a sign of unity within the former revolutionary group. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister is expected to appoint a new minister of transportation and communication following lawyer Paisalin Tago’s appointment as president of the Mindanao State University System.
Macacua’s office also continues to evaluate the performance of other officials to ensure the region’s administration remains strong during this pivotal time.
For more news and updates on BARMM transition leadership, visit Filipinokami.com.
