COTABATO CITY—Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua emphasized Monday that effective governance extends beyond the confines of public office, highlighting faith and accountability as core hallmarks of leadership.

 

“True leadership is not about power; it is about trust, responsibility, and fearing Allah (S.W.T.) more than we fear losing our positions,” said Macacua here on June 16 during the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected local chief executives of Maguindanao del Norte (MDN) and Maguindanao del Sur (MDS).

 

“It’s the heart, the sacrifice, and how well you still listen to your people when the applause fades and the real work begins,” he stated.

 

Macacua mentioned that the swearing-in of public servants is a celebration of a renewed commitment to a shared dream—a better Bangsamoro region. He also said that it symbolizes unity amidst the diversity of the Bangsamoro people.

 

Furthermore, he stressed that being a leader in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is to bring development that uplifts and peace that lasts.

 

“Let’s not waste what we fought for. And if anyone here forgets that the people come first, remember this: the people put you in office, and they can put you back in your slippers just as quickly,” he continued, subsequently underlining sincerity in serving with purpose.

 

The Chief Minister expressed his hopes for the local chief executives’ unwavering commitment and service to the Bangsamoro citizens.

 

Last month, on May 12, the Philippines, including the autonomous region, conducted its midterm elections nationwide.

 

First BARMM Parliamentary Polls

 

CM Macacua reassured that the pioneering BARMM parliamentary elections will take place in October 2025 as scheduled.

 

“We mentioned earlier the first parliamentary elections. That’s going to happen; don’t worry about it not happening,” he confirmed.

 

He added that the winning officials must carry forward the best characteristics of servant leadership, saying, “That means prioritizing the welfare of the people, not the comfort of the powerful.”

 

The parliamentary polls are set for October 13, 2025, according to Republic Act No. 12123, which approved the rescheduling of the polls to October 2025 from May 12 of this year.

 

Under Section 3, Article IV of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), the Bangsamoro region shall have a parliamentary form of government. (Johamin Inok/BIO)