BARMM interim chief faces internal MILF rift ahead of parliamentary polls

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Abdulrauf “Sammy Gambar” Macacua, the interim chief minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), is facing internal friction within the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) as the region approaches its first parliamentary elections. Maguindanao del Norte Rep. Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu vouches for Macacua, emphasizing his lifelong dedication to the peace process and urging that current disputes be viewed within this broader context. Mangudadatu stated in an interview that Macacua dedicated his entire life to the MILF for peace, highlighting his extensive history of service. Macacua previously served as chief of staff of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), the MILF's military wing, before transitioning to various senior roles within the Bangsamoro government. He held positions such as executive secretary and environment minister, and later became governor of Maguindanao del Norte, before his appointment as interim chief minister of BARMM in March 2025. However, as the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro draw near, tensions have escalated between Macacua and certain officials within the MILF leadership. A key point of contention is Macacua's decision to run as an independent candidate in the parliamentary elections, a move he explained was necessary to maintain his neutrality as chief minister and ensure fairness for all sectors and political groups in the Bangsamoro. Another controversy arose from Macacua's decision to remove Mohagher Iqbal as education minister, following findings by the Commission on Audit (COA) regarding the use of P2.2 billion in funds from the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education. On September 3, the MILF Central Committee removed Macacua from his position as BIAF chief of staff, along with over 40 other commanders and officers. This action occurred just days before the September 14 parliamentary elections, where Macacua is seeking a seat in the Bangsamoro Parliament. For Mangudadatu, the current political conflict should not overshadow Macacua’s contributions to the long journey toward peace. He stressed the importance of considering the broader picture: the years of struggle, sacrifices, and the transition from armed resistance to political participation and governance. Macacua himself has maintained his commitment to a peaceful process. Following an ambush on his convoy on August 15, he stated that he would not be deterred in fulfilling his duties and emphasized that the voice of the Bangsamoro people, as a united community, should determine the region’s future, rather than the force of arms. Against this backdrop, Macacua will face the voters in the BARMM’s inaugural parliamentary elections, a critical milestone in the region's transition from a transitional government to an elected Parliament. Mangudadatu believes that Macacua’s extensive history with the MILF and the peace process provides essential context for voters as they decide who will represent them in the new Bangsamoro Parliament. Ultimately, the decision rests with the electorate on September 14. (Contributed story)