AlNor, Cotabato City | July 18, 2025
In a heartfelt message delivered during the consultative meeting with members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), Member of Parliament Abdulbasit R. Benito expressed his deep gratitude and strong support for the initiative led by the Office of MP Tomanda Antok and facilitated under the leadership of Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua.
The meeting, held today at All Nor, Cotabato City, brought together key members of the BIAF — widely regarded as the vanguard of the Bangsamoro struggle. MP Benito highlighted the significance of their presence, referring to the BIAF as “Defenders of Moral Governance” and honoring their sacrifices in the pursuit of peace, self-determination, and justice.
“I sincerely thank our Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, through MP Tomanda Antok, for opening this space of dialogue with the very people who have given everything — their families, their properties, and even their lives — for the sake of the Bangsamoro cause,” Benito said, his voice filled with reverence.
He also recalled the guidance of the late MILF founding chairman, Sheikh Salamat Hashim, whose principles of Consultation, Collective Leadership, and Consensus — often referred to as the “Triple C” — continue to inspire the current direction of leadership in the Bangsamoro region.
“The way Chief Minister Macacua conducts these meetings reminds me of Chairman Salamat’s approach — deeply rooted in consultation and unity,” Benito reflected. “This isn’t just a meeting; it is a revival of the spirit that carried our struggle forward.”
Benito underscored the importance of continuing such dialogues even beyond the current transition period, which is set to conclude in October 2025. He urged that the involvement and voices of the BIAF should remain integral in shaping the Bangsamoro region’s future.
“This conversation should not end with the transition. Their insights, their experiences, and their sacrifices deserve a place in our ongoing journey as a government and as a people,” he stressed.
The consultative meeting served as a reaffirmation of the enduring ties between the revolutionary foundations of the Bangsamoro and its evolving governance institutions. For MP Benito, this isn’t just about policy—it’s about honoring the past while ensuring an inclusive future.
“Let us not forget where we came from. Let us never forget those who paved the way with blood and tears,” he concluded.
The event ended on a hopeful note, with a collective agreement to continue strengthening the unity and shared vision of the Bangsamoro — for today and for the generations to come.
July 18, 2025 - BY Admin