Politics · Philippines Bureau
Former MILF commander chosen as BARMM's inaugural chief minister
Abdulraof Macacua, a veteran of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, has been elected to lead the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as it begins operations under a new political framework.
LSN Philippines ·
COTABATO CITY — Abdulraof 'Sammy Gambar' Macacua was elected Friday as the first Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), marking a significant milestone in the implementation of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.
Macacua, who chairs the Bangsamoro Federalist Party, secured the position during the regional legislature's inaugural session held at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Center in Cotabato City. His nomination was put forward by Member of Parliament Kitem Kadatuan.
The election represents a landmark moment for BARMM, which was formally established to provide Muslims in Mindanao greater autonomy and self-governance. Macacua's background with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front brings extensive experience in regional political and military affairs to the newly created executive post.
As chief minister, Macacua will lead the autonomous region's government operations and serve as head of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region's cabinet. The position carries responsibility for implementing development programs and policies affecting millions of residents across the Mindanao provinces under BARMM's jurisdiction.