Japan reaffirms support for Mindanao peace process

Representatives from the Embassy of Japan attended the inaugural session of the First Regular Parliament of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on 30 October 2026, marking a landmark milestone in the Mindanao peace process.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the historic opening session in Cotabato City alongside regional leaders and international diplomats.

The inauguration follows years of peace negotiations and electoral preparations involving the Philippine government, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Commission on Elections, the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and local voters across the autonomous region.

Japanese officials commended the people of Mindanao for establishing the formal legislative body, noting Japan’s more than 30 years of continuous support for peace-building, regional development, and electoral assistance in the region.

Embassy officials reiterated that Japan, operating as a comprehensive strategic partner of the Philippines, will continue collaborating with the national and Bangsamoro governments to foster sustainable peace and economic stability in Mindanao.