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COTABATO CITY, February 20, 2026, (BMN) – Mohagher Iqbal, the First Vice Chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), urged supporters to remain united and vigilant during the MILF Provincial Assembly for Cotabato City and Maguindanao del Norte held Saturday, February 14, at Cotabato State University (CSU) along Sinsuat Avenue in the city, capital of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
In his address, Iqbal emphasized the need for careful reflection amid ongoing developments in the Bangsamoro peace process.
“We must think carefully, understand clearly, and act wisely. At this time, what should we do? If we do nothing, there is a problem because of the current policies of the Government of the Philippines,” Iqbal said.
He urged supporters to examine the policies of the Government of the Philippines (GPH), particularly in relation to the peace agreements signed with the MILF. He acknowledged that both parties engaged in negotiations that led to several signed agreements, but noted that hardships and challenges were experienced not only during the peace talks but also in their implementation.
In discussing government policy, Iqbal said, “Why did the government engage with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and through that engagement, many agreements were made and signed. After they were signed, they were implemented. This was the first major policy of the Philippines that was carried out.”
He also referred to what he described as a second policy of the government focused on peace.
“On the second policy of the Government of the Philippines that they are implementing is about peace. In their pursuit of peace, they say this will bring us freedom. But that freedom may not truly solve the problems in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao. There are many wrongdoings happening, and many people are hurting. It is possible that many groups will rise up against the Government of the Philippines because of the continued weaknesses of the Government of the Philippines,” he said.
Iqbal further stated, “We have reached a point where struggle has become an option again. However, we must be careful and think clearly about what path to take in defending our rights and protecting our people.” He encouraged supporters to remain vigilant and to uphold Islamic teachings as guidance.
“So then, what is the best action for us to take? It is clear and true what we must do. We must follow the true teachings of Islam. We must follow the true teachings of Allah Ta’ala and return to Him, and return to the guidance of the Messenger (Rasulullah),” he said.
Iqbal also warned against individuals spreading misinformation that could divide the movement. “However, there are people spreading false ideas, trying to prevent us from moving forward and from uniting with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Where then shall we find unity?” he asked.
He concluded by raising two questions before the assembly: “Why is the MILF leading the BARMM?” and “Will there be elections in 2026?”
The assembly gathered MILF members and supporters with more than 46,412 from Cotabato City and Maguindanao del Norte to discuss current developments concerning the Bangsamoro peace process. (Faydiyah Samanodi Akmad, BMN/ BangsamoroToday.com)
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Source: Bangsamoro Multimedia Network)