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Galvez expresses concern over 'divisions' within MILF

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno
September 8, 2025, 12:41 pm

MANILA -- Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. on Monday expressed concern over observations made by former peace negotiators over the "apparent divisions within the leadership" of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

In a statement, Galvez said the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) shares the peace negotiators' "perspective" that a fractured MILF leadership would serve no one's interests.

"The Bangsamoro peace process has made significant strides, a testament to the strong partnership and unity between the Government and the MILF. The progress achieved, from the negotiation phase to the current peace implementation, is a direct result of this collaboration," Galvez said.

He said any internal division within the MILF leadership risks undermining the broader aims of this historic peace process.

"As they grapple with this internal challenge, we pray that the MILF leadership will be able to take immediate and decisive action to arrest a slide into factionalism," Galvez said.

The OPAPRU chief expressed hope that the MILF would be able to engage in deep internal reflection to address and settle any outstanding issues between and among themselves.

"The recent BIAF (Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces) Peace Rally last Sept. 6, which gathered 100,000 combatants and sympathizers, showed the maturity of the MILF leadership in managing and resolving their internal issues peacefully. It is unprecedented and very inspiring," he said.

Galvez called on those who have helped the government and the MILF during the protracted negotiations to exert their influence on MILF leaders so that their rift will be healed for the sake of the broader interest of regional peace.

"We call upon all our peace partners to continue shepherding the Bangsamoro peace process. Now, more than ever, our collective efforts are needed to protect this hard-won peace. This is our peace, and it is all our duty to safeguard it," he said.

Galvez said the situation in the BARMM areas is relatively peaceful and will remain so as long as stakeholders remain committed to dialogue and peaceful resolution of all major issues with the pure intention and goodwill in fulfilling and protecting the gains of the peace process. (PNA)