New Maguindanao governors and rep take oath, pledge peace

On Monday, June 16, elected officials from Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur took their oath of office, pledging support for peace initiatives with Moro communities.

Led by Tucao Mastura and Ali Midtimbang, the winners of the gubernatorial elections in their respective provinces, along with newly elected congressional representative Esmael Mangudadatu from Maguindanao del Sur, the local executives were sworn in by Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulrauf Macacua.

The event was held at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex in Cotabato City and included representatives from various security forces and government officials.

Macacua expressed optimism that these new provincial leaders will advance the Mindanao peace process, which has been ongoing for five decades.

Mastura, Midtimbang, and Mangudadatu are scions of well-known noble Maguindanaoan clans and direct descendants of Moro datus who fought against Spanish and Japanese forces during World War II.

The new officials aim to strengthen the MILF-led United Bangsamoro Justice Party's influence in both provinces, fostering religious and political solidarity among communities.