Photo courtesy of MBHTE-BARMM.
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) expressed optimism over the appointment of Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento as the new Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, saying it could strengthen ongoing peace efforts in Mindanao.
MILF peace implementing panel head Mohagher Iqbal said the leadership change brought renewed momentum to the implementation of agreements under the Bangsamoro transition process.
He said Sarmiento’s background in local governance and coordination between regional and national structures was seen as valuable in advancing intergovernmental work involving the Bangsamoro region.
Iqbal said the MILF viewed the appointment as an opportunity to push forward the full implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
He added that the group hoped the new peace adviser would help strengthen the institutional foundations needed to sustain stability in the region.
Representing MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, Iqbal also expressed appreciation for the efforts of outgoing peace adviser Carlito Galvez Jr.
He said Galvez played a key role in advancing the peace process, including milestones such as the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law and early stages of decommissioning work.
Iqbal said the MILF acknowledged Galvez’s contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors, citing continued commitment to sustaining peace gains in Mindanao.