MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Monday expressed optimism that the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is moving closer to lasting peace and economic development following the election of Abdulraof Macacua as the region’s new chief minister.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliament has been urged by two political party officials to prioritize measures mitigating the effects of El Niño on the region's agriculture sector. Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman and Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr., both prominent figures in the BARMM Government Coalition Party, expressed confidence that Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua and the newly elected 80-member parliament would promptly introduce policies to address the anticipated El Niño impact. The El Niño weather phenomenon, caused by warming ocean surface temperatures, is expected to bring prolonged dry spells affecting tropical areas in the Pacific region, including BARMM. Most residents in BARMM rely on cultivating short-term crops for their livelihood, which could be severely threatened by the dry conditions. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recently announced that El Niño would likely intensify this month and last until mid-2027. Hataman, president of the Bangsamoro People's Party, and Adiong, a senior official of the Serbisyong Inklusibo, Alyansang Progresibo Party, emphasized the need for all parliament members to unite in addressing El Niño's effects. They also called for collaboration with the Bangsamoro Business Council (BBC), whose members, many engaged in agricultural enterprises, expressed readiness to assist in planning initiatives to ease the impact on farmers and livestock raisers. The BARMM territory encompasses five provinces and three cities, including Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Lamitan, Marawi, and Cotabato City. The region's 32-hectare regional capitol is located in Cotabato City. The officials stressed that addressing El Niño's effects is crucial for promoting peace and development in BARMM, as the region's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture.

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Catholic Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, chairman of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Interreligious Dialogue (CBCP-ECID), has commended all stakeholders for the peaceful and democratic election of Bangsamoro's first chief minister and other BARMM officials under its regular parliamentary government. The election, held during the inaugural session of the first regular Bangsamoro Parliament on October 30, saw Abdulraof Macacua secure 51 votes against 27 for former Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, with one member abstaining and another absent. Bishop Bagaforo described the election as a historic step in the region's peace process, emphasizing that Macacua is the first to hold the chief minister's office under the newly established regular BARMM government. The bishop also praised the MILF and its leaders, including Chairman Ahod "Al Haj Murad" Ebrahim and Vice Chair Mohagger Iqbal, for ensuring a peaceful and democratic transition from its interim administration. This election marks the formal end of the seven-year administration of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and the beginning of the region's first regular parliamentary government. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating it represents the transition from armed struggle to peaceful democratic governance. He urged the new parliamentary coalition to uphold 'unity, statesmanship, and cooperation' and to focus on translating peace gains into responsive governance, economic opportunities, and better public services. The president emphasized that the success of the new political arrangement should be measured by its ability to improve the daily lives of Bangsamoro families through just governance and inclusive development. The CBCP-ECID expressed support for the new Bangsamoro government and Parliament, reaffirming the Church's commitment to walking with Muslim communities, Indigenous Peoples, and all regional sectors in building a just and lasting peace. The peaceful election process reflects the ongoing commitment to the peace agreement between the Philippine government and the MILF, underscoring the importance of democratic processes in the region's development.

On October 30, 2026, a thousand police officers and soldiers were deployed across strategic locations in Cotabato City to secure the inaugural session of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliament. The event, held at the regional government center in uptown Cotabato City, marked the first session of the newly elected members of the BARMM parliament following the September 14 parliamentary elections. Local officials, including Cotabato City Mayor Bruce Matabalao, and interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, commended the Army's 6th Infantry Division and the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) for their security efforts. Tensions had been high in the city due to concerns about potential disruptions from rival groups with differing preferences for the chief minister position. Macacua, who was nominated by 51 of the 80 parliament members, emphasized that there were no untoward incidents during the session, with peace maintained throughout Cotabato City. The security operation involved coordination between the 6th Infantry Division under Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu and PRO-BAR led by Police Brig. Gen. Christopher M. Abecia, with support from local police units. The successful security measures were seen as crucial for the stability of the newly established parliamentary body, which represents a significant step in the governance of the Bangsamoro region. The event was part of broader efforts to ensure the peaceful transition and functioning of the BARMM government following the first-ever parliamentary elections in the region.

Major business groups, peace-advocacy entities, and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) have separately pledged support for the socioeconomic objectives of the newly mandated Bangsamoro parliament. The 80-member Bangsamoro parliament, elected during the region's September 14 parliamentary elections, held its inaugural session on October 30, 2026, at the Bangsamoro regional capitol in Cotabato City. The parliament's formation marks the end of the interim regional parliament, which was composed of appointed members. Abdulraof Macacua took his oath as chief minister during the symbolic ceremony. Business leaders, including Ronald Hallid Torres of the Bangsamoro Business Council (BBC), welcomed the empowered parliament, emphasizing its potential to focus on legislation that can help grow the business sector, attract local and foreign investment, and create employment opportunities for BARMM residents. The MNLF, led by chair Muslimin Sema, pledged cooperation in maintaining peace and order to support Macacua's peace and development agenda. Sema also mentioned the potential to attract investors from Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member-states, which include petroleum-exporting nations in the Middle East and North Africa. Various organizations of Chinese merchants in Cotabato City congratulated Macacua on his nomination as chief minister. The OIC played a key role in brokering peace agreements between the government and the MNLF in 1996, and later with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in 2014, paving the way for the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2019. The MNLF veterans, including Hatimil Hassan, Gerry Salapuddin, and Hussein Mohammad, also pledged their support for Macacua's leadership. The new parliament aims to address decades of underdevelopment in remote areas of BARMM, stemming from secessionist conflict that eased following peace agreements with the MNLF and Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The business groups and MNLF's support is seen as crucial for unlocking the region's investment potential and fostering economic growth.

The Philippine Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade has recognised the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB) for its contributions to maintaining peace and security in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), particularly during the region’s first parliamentary elections held on September 14, 2026. Brig. Gen. Gremel Brual, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, led the recognition and send-off ceremony on November 2 at the Old Capitol in Barangay Poblacion, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur. The event honoured the battalion’s service, dedication and professionalism under the leadership of its commander, Lt. Col. Earl Pardillo. Although the 75IB is based in Surigao del Sur and operates under the 401st Infantry Brigade of the Army’s 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, it was deployed to support security operations in Maguindanao del Sur. Working alongside the Army’s 1st Mechanised Infantry Battalion of the Armor Division, its personnel helped ensure the orderly and peaceful conduct of the first Bangsamoro parliamentary elections. The battalion also contributed to security preparations surrounding the formal inaugural session of the elected BARMM Parliament. In recognition of its performance, discipline and commitment to duty, the 75IB received a plaque of recognition and medals during the ceremony. Brual expressed his appreciation to the officers and personnel for their professionalism and dedication, emphasising the importance of their contribution to the electoral process and the region’s stability. He said the battalion had played a significant role in ensuring peaceful elections and supporting the inauguration of the elected parliament. He also stressed that the battalion’s departure would not diminish the importance of its accomplishments, which had helped establish a strong foundation for more stable and improved communities in the areas it served. The 601st Infantry Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to continuing peace and security initiatives in the Bangsamoro region, working closely with local government units and community members to promote public order, stability and development in Maguindanao del Sur.

Umaasa si Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian na nasa tamang landas na ang Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

Bangsamoro Labor Minister Muslimin Sema COTABATO CITY, BARMM, Philippines — A faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) led by former Cotabato City Mayor Muslimin Sema has denied

Bookmark this page to watch the livestream of the first elected Bangsamoro Parliament's session in Cotabato City on October 30

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian has expressed his hope for the economic development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) following the region's inaugural parliamentary session. In his address during the opening of the 2nd regular session of the Senate on July 27, 2026, Gatchalian congratulated Abdulraof Macacua for being elected as chief minister to lead the 80-seat parliament. He urged political blocs, civil society groups, and local government units to rally behind the new BARMM administration to ensure stability after the historic September 14 parliamentary polls. The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), business groups, and peace advocates have committed to supporting the socioeconomic objectives of the BARMM parliament. MNLF chairman Muslimin Sema stated that his group would cooperate in maintaining law and order in the region, emphasizing their commitment to supporting peace and development initiatives for the region's economy to flourish. Gatchalian's remarks come as the BARMM continues to work towards establishing a stable and prosperous autonomous region following years of conflict and political challenges. The Senate President's comments highlight the importance of unity and collaboration among various stakeholders to achieve sustainable development in the region. This development is crucial for the BARMM, which has been working to rebuild and strengthen its governance structures after the implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law. The support from key groups like the MNLF and business communities is seen as a positive step towards achieving the region's economic goals. The Senate President's focus on BARMM's development underscores the government's commitment to addressing the needs of the Muslim-majority region and promoting inclusive growth across the country. The upcoming initiatives and collaborations will be closely monitored to ensure they contribute effectively to the region's long-term prosperity.

Heavy security measures are in place for the historic inaugural session of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliament on Friday, October 30, 2026, according to military officials. Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, confirmed that comprehensive operational measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of the event. The military is taking social media reports of possible disruptions seriously, though authorities have downplayed concerns about destabilization by supporters of BARMM candidates. Catu advised the public to avoid traveling to Cotabato City on Friday to prevent traffic congestion, following inspections of security forces at all city entry and exit points. The Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office deployed a 150-strong security contingent, while the Police Regional Office-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BAR) sent an additional 100-strong mobile force to secure the Bangsamoro Government Center. Military and police forces, including a battalion of police, Army, Coast Guard, and Philippine Marines, are securing the city with armored personnel carriers and watercraft guarding tributaries. Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento emphasized the Marcos administration's commitment to providing a secure environment for parliamentarians to exercise their democratic mandate. He stated that synchronized coordination with security clusters and peace implementing panels ensures a peaceful, orderly, and secure session. Sarmiento highlighted that this event marks a defining moment for the Bangsamoro people and the nation, with the election of the Chief Minister and other officials as key agenda items. The security preparations include meetings between military, OPAPRU representatives, and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities to maintain stability. Authorities are working to ensure transparency and safety during the historic democratic exercise, reflecting the government's dedication to fostering a stable and inclusive BARMM.

(1st UPDATE) Macacua's election marks the transition from an appointed interim authority to a regular regional government following parliametary elections on September 14

The research examines media habits in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), including how people access information.

COTABATO CITY — President Marcos urged the first elected leaders of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to be bearers of hope for the Moro people whose aspirations for self-governance took a historic turn on Friday with the inaugural session of the 80-member regional parliament. “After decades of struggle, we have reached this

Five people were killed in separate gun attacks across different towns in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) within a 36-hour period. The attacks occurred in Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, and the Bangsamoro Special Geographic Area (SGA). On Monday, October 26, tricycle driver Hashim Buyogan Hadji Esmael was shot in the head by a motorcycle rider in Barangay Dicalungan, Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur. Witnesses reported seeing one of two men on a motorcycle shoot Esmael before fleeing. On Sunday night, October 25, Munsari Abpi and Usop Ugod were ambushed on a highway in Barangay Iganagampong, Datu Unsay, Maguindanao del Sur, while riding a motorcycle together. Both were killed instantly. On Saturday morning, barangay councilor Saddam Barra was shot dead in front of his roadside store in Barangay Macabiso, Sultan Mastura, Maguindanao del Norte. The attackers escaped on a motorcycle. Also on Saturday, motorcycle rider Alex Talungon was shot dead by gunmen in a minivan in Nabalawag, a town in the Bangsamoro SGA. Talungon was on his way to the town center when he was attacked from behind along a secluded highway. The Bangsamoro SGA consists of eight towns under the autonomous regional government but located within Cotabato province in Region 12. The attacks highlight ongoing security challenges in the region, with multiple fatalities occurring in a short timeframe across different municipalities. Police investigations are ongoing, but no suspects have been identified yet. The incidents have raised concerns about safety and security in the BARMM region, particularly in areas where such attacks have become increasingly frequent.

A recent study commissioned by the Philippine Tobacco Institute (PTI) has revealed that the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the Zamboanga Peninsula account for the highest rates of illicit cigarette consumption in the Philippines. According to the Kantar Open Pack Study conducted between November 2025 and February 2026, illicit cigarettes made up 85.6% of consumption in BARMM and 81% in Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula). The study also identified Lanao del Sur as having the highest provincial rate at 93.5%, followed by Zamboanga Sibugay at 87.5% and Zamboanga del Sur at 81.4%. Maguindanao recorded an incidence rate of 77%, while Region X posted 54.8%. Nationally, the incidence of illicit cigarettes decreased to 16.3% from 17.6% in the previous survey, marking the first decline in five years. However, this national trend contrasts sharply with the persistent high rates in Mindanao regions. The PTI president, Bayen Elero-Tinga, attributed the continued illicit trade to the widening price gap between legal cigarettes and untaxed contraband, which criminal networks exploit as tax increases make legitimate products more expensive. She emphasized that while progress has been made, the problem remains significant and requires strengthened enforcement, particularly in high-incidence areas. The study also noted that the EU-ASEAN Business Council estimated illicit cigarettes accounted for 25.3% of total consumption in the Philippines in 2025. These findings highlight the regional disparities in the illicit cigarette trade, with Mindanao regions, particularly BARMM and Zamboanga, facing the most severe challenges. The PTI has called for continued efforts to combat the illicit tobacco trade, stressing that the fight is far from over despite the national decline in illicit cigarette consumption.

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Military and police forces are on full alert ahead of the inaugural session of the newly elected Bangsamoro Parliament on Friday, October 30, 2026, with troops and armored tanks deployed in strategic parts of Cotabato City. Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, commander of the Army's 6th Infantry Division, and Col. Jibin Bongcayao, director of the Cotabato City Police Office, conducted security inspections around the city and surrounding areas to strengthen operational readiness for the important occasion. The inspection focused on enhancing security measures, ensuring forces remain ready to respond to potential threats, and maintaining peace and order during the event. Authorities have not monitored any specific security threats related to the opening of the regular Parliament's inaugural session, but additional security personnel were deployed as part of preparations. Catu emphasized working with all sectors in the BARMM government, local government units, and stakeholders to prevent peace spoilers from disrupting the process. The BARMM's 80 elected parliament members will convene at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Center inside the Bangsamoro Government Center to elect the chief minister, sergeant-at-arms, and other parliamentary officials. Top contenders for chief minister include interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua of the Bangsamoro Federalist Party (BFP) and Ahod 'Al Haj Murad' Ebrahim of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) and chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Suharto 'Teng' Mangudadatu, former Technical Education and Skills Development Authority director general and former governor of Sultan Kudarat province, is also a potential candidate. Catu denied social media reports of a lockdown in Cotabato City, stating that people can move freely but must cooperate with authorities. Soldiers, backed by armored personnel carriers and Philippine Marine water assets, are securing entry points to Cotabato City, including waterways, to prevent disruptions during the historic parliamentary proceedings. Macacua ordered government employees assigned to the Bangsamoro Government Center to work from home from Wednesday until Friday to maintain essential services while ensuring security. The security measures follow election-related violence on September 14 that left seven people dead and at least 15 injured in Cotabato City.