Cotabato City — The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has expressed support for the appointment of Mel Senen Sarmiento as Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, calling it a timely move to advance the Bangsamoro peace process.

In a statement, MILF Peace Implementing Panel chair Mohagher Iqbal said Sarmiento’s designation presents an opportunity to push for the full implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), which led to the creation of the Bangsamoro autonomous region.

Iqbal also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing peace adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., crediting his tenure with key milestones in the peace process.

“General Galvez was not only an official but a partner of the MILF during critical years of implementation,” Iqbal said, citing the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law and the start of the decommissioning of former combatants.

The MILF said the current phase of the transition calls for stronger civilian governance, noting that Sarmiento’s background in local governance and national administration aligns with the needs of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Among the group’s priorities are completing the normalization process, strengthening governance and fiscal capacity of BARMM institutions, ensuring credible and democratic parliamentary elections, and delivering development gains to conflict-affected communities.

The MILF also stressed the complexity of remaining tasks, particularly the normalization track involving disarmament, reintegration, and transitional justice, which requires sustained coordination between the government and former rebel groups.

“The work ahead requires collaboration, not parallel efforts,” Iqbal said. “We can complete this final stage with a shared commitment to respect and sincere problem-solving.”

Sarmiento’s appointment comes at a critical stage of the Bangsamoro transition, with expectations focused on continuity, institutional strengthening, and inclusive governance.