The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has approved the accreditation of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front's political party, enabling its participation in the Bangsamoro parliamentary elections scheduled for September 14.
In a recent resolution, Comelec granted the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) the right to register as a regional parliamentary political party and to nominate district representatives.
This decision follows the dismissal of two petitions to disqualify the UBJP, which argued that the party was simply an extension of the armed MILF.
Opposition Petitions Dismissed
The petitions, filed by Sahabudin Panambulan Usop and Gasanara Dibaraten, claimed that the UBJP's ties to the MILF categorized it as an 'armed organization.'
However, the UBJP countered these claims, asserting that it operates as a distinct entity with its own organizational framework.
Comelec’s Ruling
Comelec supported the UBJP’s position, stating that allegations of an armed character must be substantiated with credible evidence.
Presidential Peace Adviser Mel Senen Sarmiento praised the resolution, viewing it as a significant step toward democratic governance in the Bangsamoro region.
This is a triumph for the democratic principles enshrined in the Bangsamoro Organic Law and a vital step in the region’s transition toward meaningful self-governance.
Mel Senen Sarmiento