Sharon Cuneta-Pangilinan’s visit to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF) Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat is nothing short of unforgettable. Despite her iconic status, the Megastar called this encounter “one of the highlights of my life.”
On May 2, Sharon stood beside her husband, former senator and senatorial candidate Kiko Pangilinan, as they received a powerful endorsement. The United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the official political arm of the MILF, formally backed Kiko’s candidacy.
Sharon’s connection to Mindanao runs deep. She made a personal request to return to the region after missing the chance to attend the endorsement of MILF’s Kumander Bravo, a significant figure in the Bangsamoro Armed Forces. “When I say I love Mindanao, I don’t say it lightly. It’s been in my heart since I was young,” Sharon shared during the endorsement ceremony. Meeting the MILF leaders felt like a heartfelt reunion.
Mindanao is more than a place for her—it’s her “baby.” This affectionate term is well-known to Kiko, with Sharon often asking him about the region’s progress. “I’ve been pestering Kiko for over 20 years, despite the many issues in Manila and the Philippines. But Mindanao has always been close to my heart. I tell him, ‘My baby, what about my baby?’” she said.
Her fascination with Muslim culture traces back to childhood. When Kiko first won his Senate seat in 2001, Sharon immediately requested all materials related to Mindanao from his office. This passion turned into action in 2018 when she launched a fundraiser for the war-torn city of Marawi, a movement she shared widely on social media.
“I want you to know, we are all brothers and sisters. My love for you is real,” Sharon declared to the crowd.
Kiko Pangilinan’s commitment to Bangsamoro is equally steadfast. During the Aquino administration, he advised former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III on the Bangsamoro Basic Law. In his final Senate years, he championed the Bangsamoro Organic Act, voting in favor and serving on the bicameral conference committee. His goal was clear: to safeguard the law’s core provisions that honor the struggle and autonomy of the Bangsamoro people.
Together, Sharon and Kiko highlight a shared mission: advocating for peace, progress, and unity in Mindanao. Their journey is one of passion, dedication, and enduring hope for a brighter future in the Bangsamoro region.