BIPPS backs Macacua’s call for Bangsamoro autonomy amid coalition formation

COTABATO CITY - The Bangsamoro Initiative for Peace, Progress and Solidarity (BIPPS) has thrown its support behind Chief Minister Abdulraof A. Macacua’s call to uphold regional autonomy, respect the mandate of elected parliament members, and allow democratic institutions to operate freely under the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

In a statement, the civic organization welcomed the establishment of a 46-member majority coalition in the Bangsamoro Parliament.

The alliance brings together multiple political parties and groups, including the BFP, BGC, UBJP, NMIP, SIAP, Raayat, and Pro-Bangsamoro, reflecting a broad spectrum of political and community interests.

BIPPS said the coalition demonstrates that diverse political factions can bridge their differences to advance inclusive governance, stability, and lasting peace in the region.

The group echoed Macacua’s appeal for the Bangsamoro government to organize independently through lawful parliamentary processes and free from external interference.

Genuine autonomy must be practiced as well as preached, BIPPS noted, stressing that the right of the Bangsamoro people to choose their leaders is fundamental to self-governance and the historic peace process.

In addition, BIPPS praised President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for respecting Bangsamoro autonomy and recognizing the parliament's authority to select its leadership under the organic law.

The group said the President's stance strengthens mutual respect and ensures ongoing national backing for regional development.

BIPPS describes itself as a non-profit organization representing ordinary citizens, including ulama, farmers, indigenous peoples, and civil society groups.

The group emphasized that meaningful democratic participation and the protection of self-determination must guide the ongoing political transition.

Urging stakeholders to respect the parliamentary process, BIPPS called on leaders and civil society to avoid actions that could undermine regional autonomy or derail the peaceful transition toward the first regular Bangsamoro Government.

"The Bangsamoro people’s historic struggle for self-governance reflects generations of aspirations for dignity, justice and the right to shape their own future," the group stated, calling regional autonomy a hard-won achievement that must be safeguarded.