Officers-in-charge have been appointed in Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur as part of the Philippine government’s commitment to ensuring stability in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), according to senior officials. Former president Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. appointed Abdulraof A. Macacua and Bai Mariam S. Mangudadatu as OICs. The two officials expressed confidence in Macacua, saying that his designation is a testament to Marcos’ trust and confidence; his experience as a civil servant and senior Moro Islamic Liberation Front member will be important in promoting peace.

The appointment of officers-in-charge in Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is aimed at ensuring stability in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), according to government officials. Defense Senior Undersecretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and acting Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity Isidro Purisima welcomed the appointments, saying they would “move forward and sustain the gains of the Bangsamoro peace process.” Abdulraof A. Macacua and Bai Mariam S. Mangudadatu were appointed as OICs of Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur, respectively. The officials expressed confidence in Macacua’s capacity “to handle the reins of governance in Maguindanao del Norte, and most importantly, lead the people of the province at this crucial time.” The appointment of officers-in-charge is part of a bill signed into law by former President Rodrigo Duterte, which seeks to divide Maguindanao into two provinces with corporate powers and general powers to levy taxes and create revenue sources.