New BARMM ministers take oath at Malacanang

MANILA, Philippines — Newly appointed members of the Bangsamoro Parliament underscored their role in the region’s continued development after being sworn into office.

An oath-taking ceremony was conducted at the Heroes Hall in Malacañang Palace on Monday night, where the 35 new appointees were sworn in by President Ferdinand “Bongbong" Marcos Jr.

They were joined by other government secretaries, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Speaker Pangalian Balindong and new Interim Chief Minister Abdularaof Macacua.

"We also celebrate the partnership between the national and Bangsamoro governments, a partnership that will help turn our dream of lasting peace into a reality," Balindong said in his speech.

Macacua, for his part, thanked former Interim Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim for his role in leading BARMM over the past six years. He vowed that the new set of ministers will continue and build on what Ebrahim started.

The interim chief also expressed his gratitude to Marcos for his administration's continued cooperation in the development of BARMM, noting that their sacrifices in the past were not in vain.

"I thank the president for recognizing the long and arduous struggle of the Bangsamoro, especially the sacrifices of my fellow Mujahideen who fought for our right to self-determination. That recognition means a lot to us — it honors our past and strengthens our hope for a peaceful future," Macacua said.

"Your continued support for the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and your firm commitment to implementing the Bangsamoro Organic Law show that the national government stands with us," the new interim chief added.

In a separate statement, Macacua also thanked Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo Jr. and Secretary Carlito Galvez of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity for their efforts in maintaining peace and open communication between the national and Bangsamoro governments.

Marcos, introduced by Lagdameo, also welcomed the new appointees, emphasizing their crucial role in building the future of the Bangsamoro.

"I welcome all the newly appointed members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority Parliament who have taken their oaths today. To my fellow government workers in the Bangsamoro, you have pledged to uphold the trust of your constituents," Marcos said.

"You will carry the aspirations of those who have longed for peace and self-governance. You will be instrumental in creating a future built by and for the Bangsamoro," the president added.

Macacua was installed as the new interim chief of the region alongside the other appointees and will serve until new members, elected in the first-ever parliamentary elections in October 2025, are seated.