President Marcos urges Bangsamoro lawmakers to uphold peace, push regional growth

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. encouraged the members of the newly convened Bangsamoro Parliament to safeguard the gains of the peace process and work toward sustained development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Speaking during the inaugural session of the region's first elected Parliament in Cotabato City on Friday, Oct. 30, Marcos described the gathering as a historic milestone in BARMM's transition to self-governance following its maiden parliamentary elections.

The President urged the region's leaders to set aside differences and embrace cooperation as they begin their responsibilities under the parliamentary system, stressing that the success of the Bangsamoro project will depend not only on elections but also on effective leadership and public service.

Marcos reminded the 80-member legislative body to honor the sacrifices made throughout the peace process by promoting accountable governance and responding to the needs of Bangsamoro communities.

He expressed optimism that the new Parliament would help strengthen peace and create more economic opportunities across the region, noting that stability remains essential for development, investment, and the implementation of government programs.

The President also assured lawmakers of the national government's continued support, saying Manila remains committed to working closely with the regional leadership that will be formed by the Parliament.

Under the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the Parliament is tasked with electing the region's Chief Minister and exercising key legislative functions, including approving budgets, enacting regional laws, and overseeing public programs.

BARMM was established in 2019 following the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, which carried out major provisions of the 2014 peace agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.