COTABATO CITY – Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua has responded to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s decision to indefinitely suspend him as Chief of Staff of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces, saying his decision to run as an independent candidate in the upcoming Bangsamoro parliamentary elections was intended to allow him to serve all Bangsamoro constituents fairly and without partisan bias.
In a statement released Friday, Macacua cited his decision to run as an independent candidate as one of the issues raised in the resolution issued by the MILF Central Committee.
According to Macacua, he intentionally chose not to align himself with any political party while serving as Chief Minister, arguing that doing so would enable him to maintain neutrality and engage all sectors of the Bangsamoro regardless of political affiliation.
”Matagal pa ang election. Kailangan patas pa rin ang aking pamumuno sa lahat ng Bangsamoro bilang Chief Minister,” Macacua said.
The Chief Minister maintained that his approach has contributed to improving relations between the Bangsamoro Government and various local government units and political stakeholders across the region.
Supporters of Macacua argue that his leadership has fostered greater cooperation among local governments and political actors, including those outside the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the political party associated with the MILF. They contend that previous perceptions of exclusion among some political groups had contributed to strained relations between BARMM institutions and certain local stakeholders.
They further claim that broader political engagement and inclusivity have helped improve coordination in governance and development efforts across different provinces and municipalities.
Macacua also clarified claims regarding a Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA), stating that he had not received any such document.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said he respects the MILF’s decision to suspend him as BIAF Chief of Staff and expressed relief that the move would lessen the burden of simultaneously carrying two major responsibilities.
”Ako kasama ako sa masaya dahil kahit papaano nabawasan ang ating responsibilidad na sa totoo lang mahirap pagsabayin ang Chief Minister ka ng gobyerno at Chief of Staff ka ng isang military organization,” he said.
Despite the suspension, Macacua called on his supporters to remain calm and avoid actions that could worsen the situation or create further divisions within the Bangsamoro.
He emphasized the need to preserve unity and continue pursuing governance reforms, including efforts against corruption, nepotism, and unimplemented government projects.
The MILF-CC approved Res. No. 01, s. 2026 on June 3, indefinitely suspending Macacua as BIAF Chief of Staff and directing MILF structures and affiliated bodies to implement the resolution.
