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Philstar.com
January 21, 2026 | 2:54pm
The Bangsamoro regional government center is located in Cotabato City, the capital of the autonomous region.
Photo courtesy of Philstar.com / John Unson
COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua on Wednesday, January 21, credited the national government’s respect for Bangsamoro regional autonomy as a cornerstone of the region’s progress.
This even as Macacua reaffirmed BARMM’s adherence to national authority and the peace framework, and declared a unified regional leadership rolling out its 2026 governance and development agenda during the 7th BARMM Foundation Anniversary.
Speaking before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., national officials and regional leaders, Macacua underscored that BARMM’s gains are unfolding within the framework of the Philippine Constitution and the peace agreement, stressing that the Bangsamoro government supports — rather than obstructs — the implementation of national commitments to peace and self-governance.
“This administration will not prevent the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro — we support and protect it,” Macacua said, signaling continued alignment between the regional government and the national peace process.
Macacua acknowledged the presence of the President and national officials as a clear affirmation of the national government’s role in sustaining the Bangsamoro transition, noting that autonomy functions as a mechanism to bring governance, justice, and development closer to communities historically affected by conflict.
He emphasized that BARMM autonomy is not an assertion of separation but a working model of devolved governance within a united Republic — anchored on constitutional order, institutional coordination, and shared responsibility between Manila and the region.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the 7th Foundation Anniversary marked an unprecedented show of unity among Members of Parliament across party lines, provincial governors, mayors, and BARMM ministries, all operating under one administration and direction - an alignment he said strengthens both regional governance and national stability.
Citing 2025 accomplishments, Macacua said the Bangsamoro government attracted nearly P5 billion in investments, completed over 500 infrastructure projects, expanded health and social protection services, generated employment for thousands of youth, and strengthened justice and peace mechanisms — outcomes he said demonstrate that autonomy, when properly implemented, works for the people.
Looking ahead, Macacua said the administration will “amplify — not change — direction” in 2026 through the Mas Matatag na Bangsamoro Agenda, committing billions of pesos for governance reform, economic development, education, health, housing, infrastructure, peacebuilding, and faith-based programs.
He stressed that sustained coordination with the national government, combined with accountable regional leadership, is essential to ensuring that peace dividends translate into inclusive growth and long-term stability.
As BARMM enters its seventh year, Macacua said the regional government remains focused on honoring the sacrifices that led to autonomy while strengthening institutions that serve both the Bangsamoro people and the nation as a whole. (Contributed story)
