COTABATO CITY – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has expressed its profound gratitude to Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero for his unequivocal support of the Bangsamoro parliamentary elections proceeding as scheduled on October 13, 2025. 

The MILF's statement underscores their commitment to the democratic process and the lasting peace in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

In a recent statement, the MILF highlighted their resonance with Senate President Escudero's declaration that holding the scheduled election "will be our gift to our Muslim brothers and sisters so that they can choose their leaders who will be accountable for their actions and not beholden to the Palace, to the administration who appointed them." This sentiment, according to the MILF, aligns with their vision for genuine self-determination and good governance in the region.

The MILF, a former revolutionary organization that inked a peace agreement with the Philippine government, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the decommissioning and normalization process. They emphasized their transformation into an "active non-violent social movement committed to democracy and rule of law," a demonstration of their sincerity to foster lasting peace and meaningful change in the Bangsamoro Region.

With just over three months remaining until the historic first parliamentary election, the MILF views this as a "pivotal opportunity to shift the Bangsamoro struggle from bullets to ballots." This signifies a significant move towards peaceful and democratic means of pursuing their aspirations for the region.

The MILF concluded their statement with a call to action, urging the National Government and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to "prepare and mobilize all resources to ensure a peaceful, orderly, fair and credible election this coming October 13, 2025." They emphasized the importance of seizing this "defining moment to strengthen regional autonomy and build a future rooted in moral governance, inclusive growth and self-determination."

This strong statement from the MILF signals their readiness for the upcoming elections and their continued dedication to the peace process, aiming to usher in a new era of democratic governance and progress for the Bangsamoro people.