BARMM chief wins parliamentary district seat, calls for unity

COTABATO CITY – Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua has called for unity among all Bangsamoro leaders and for newly elected officials to accept their mandates with humility and responsibility following the historic Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) on Monday.

“The election is over, but our work does not end here. Now is the time to unite and continue what we have started. Join me in building a stronger Bangsamoro—more peaceful, more just, and more united,” Macacua said Tuesday.

Macacua won as parliamentary representative of Maguindanao del Norte 3rd district over his lone rival, Badrudin Mamad, of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP).

READ: Poll watchdog: 98.56% of votes cast in BARMM polls counted

He also prayed for the protection of the Bangsamoro people, especially those physically hurt by the electoral process.

“Protect our people, comfort those affected by violence, guide our leaders, and bless the Bangsamoro with lasting peace, justice, and unity. May You continue to guide us in serving our people and building a better future for everyone,” Macacua, president of Bangsamoro Federalist Party (BFP), said.

He lauded the Bangsamoro people who worked tirelessly for the successful first BPE.

“This historic moment reflects the courage, participation, and hope of every Bangsamoro who cast a vote and believed in a better future,” he said, noting that he felt hurt by the violence that occurred in some areas across the region, particularly in Cotabato City.

“To those who were hurt and those who lost loved ones, we have not forgotten you. Let us not allow violence to divide us. Despite our differences, we share one Bangsamoro and one future. Let us unite, support one another, and choose peace,” he said.

He said the recent political exercises are not only about those who won.

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“It is about every Bangsamoro who placed their trust in the process and contributed to shaping our future. To those who have been given a mandate, accept it with humility and full responsibility,” Macacua said./coa