MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have reinforced their cooperation to help ensure peaceful, safe, and credible national and local elections in 2025 through new ceasefire guidelines and coordinated security measures.
The reaffirmation of this commitment took place at Kampo Ranao, where both parties expressed support for the peaceful conduct of the elections scheduled for May 12, 2025. The agreement builds on the guidelines for mutual understanding for ceasefire-related functions developed by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), through the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) of both parties.
Commitment to peace
Brig. Gen. Patricio Ruben Amata, acting chair of the GPH-CCCH, stated that the pledge of commitment by both parties represents the outcome of sustained efforts and a reminder of their responsibilities.
He said the event also serves as a platform to enhance coordination between military commanders and MILF commanders, supporting efforts to build trust and maintain open communication.
“These upcoming elections are more than just political exercises. They are the realization of the people’s right to choose their leaders freely, fairly and without fear. This is democracy in action, peace in motion. The pledge we signed is a solemn reaffirmation that we will remain faithful stewards of the peace process, a public declaration that we stand united to ensure that the electoral process, especially in Lanao del Sur and throughout Bangsamoro, is peaceful, orderly, and credible,” Amata said.
He further said that peace requires collective vigilance, shared responsibility, and mutual respect. “Let us safeguard this pledge with words that heal, not inflame, and with actions that build trust, not sow division.”
Zaidie Ali, a member of the MILF-CCCH in Lanao del Sur, affirmed the MILF’s commitment to upholding fairness, justice, and the rule of law. Ali emphasized that their mission is to prevent violence, maintain neutrality, and protect the rights of all voters.
He added that they will work to ensure the electoral process remains transparent, secure, and representative of the people’s will.
“As guardians of peace on the MILF side, we will not tolerate any form of violence or intimidation. We will act safely and decisively to address any issues that may arise, always prioritizing the safety and security of all citizens,” Ali said.
Security protocols
Retired Col. Joel Mamon, head of the GPH-CCCH and AHJAG Secretariat, emphasized that GPH-MILF ceasefire mechanisms recognize the authority of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to oversee the electoral process.
He said the agreement aims to prevent confrontations between GPH and MILF forces while GPH troops are deployed to areas identified by the Comelec, including those within MILF communities.
Under the guidelines, both sides agreed to allow the unhampered movement of election paraphernalia, voters, and security personnel in MILF areas. MILF members may continue to use their usual routes but are prohibited from carrying weapons or wearing uniforms during the election period.
MILF movements must be coordinated through the CCCH and AHJAG. The MILF is also expected to refrain from assembling its forces for any purpose, including peace gatherings, until the conclusion of the elections. Exceptions are made for Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte, and Camp Bushra in Butig, Lanao del Sur, where the MILF chair and vice-chair reside.
The agreement also prohibits the establishment of MILF checkpoints or posts along roads leading to polling centers. Quick response teams will be deployed to monitor compliance and assist in the implementation of the ceasefire agreement in electoral areas.
Broad support
Aside from Amata, Ali, and Mamon, the pledge of commitment was also signed by Presidential Adviser for Bangsamoro Transformation David Diciano; Police Brig. Gen. Alan D. Manibog, deputy regional director for Administration of the Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao; 103rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Billy Dela Rosa; Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Director Col. Robert Daculan; army battalion commanders assigned in Lanao del Sur; Member of Parliament Jannati Mimbantas, MILF front commander of North Eastern Mindanao; Aleem Isah Bato, deputy front commander of North Western Mindanao, and other key stakeholders.
The implementation of the guidelines will remain until May 13, 2025. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)
