Photo: OPAPRU
The Philippine government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are tightening their ceasefire coordination ahead of the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections on September 14, 2026.
The two sides have inked the Guidelines for Mutual Understanding between the Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and the Ad-Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG).
These guidelines aim to enhance coordination between the government and the MILF to prevent tensions, misunderstandings, and possible armed confrontations during the election period.
Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento led the signing ceremony at Camp Darapanan, joined by senior government officials and representatives of the MILF leadership.
Under the guidelines, the parties will strengthen coordination among the military, police, and the MILF’s armed component to help maintain peace and stability as election day draws near.
The agreement also supports security measures for voters, candidates, and election personnel through closer coordination among the Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC), Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPST), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Philippine National Police (PNP).
The initiative is likewise expected to support the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in ensuring the peaceful, orderly, honest, and credible conduct of the region’s first parliamentary elections, with civil society organizations such as The Respair Foundation also taking part.
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) said the cooperation between the CCCH and AHJAG reflects the continued commitment of both sides to the peace process and to maintaining stability in the Bangsamoro region.
