The Third Party Monitoring Team (TPMT) recently finished its 57th visit. The team oversees the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). This agreement was signed in 2014 between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The peace process has two main tracks. One track creates an autonomous regional government. The second track aims to normalize conflict-affected areas.
“Today, some 12 years after signature of the CAB, we look at a mixed picture,” the TPMT noted. “There is reason for hope, but there is also lingering uncertainty.”
The team expects the first BARMM parliamentary elections on Sept. 14, 2026. This follows four previous postponements. The TPMT believes an elected parliament will be a “formidable achievement of the peace process.”
However, the normalization track lags behind the political track. Decommissioning of combatants remains unfinished. Meanwhile, socioeconomic support for former fighters has stalled. Other tasks like disbanding private armed groups are still in early stages.
The monitor noted that core principles are often ignored. “In our assessment these core principles have been compromised all too often over the last few years,” the report stated.
The TPMT warned against unilateral actions. Recent leadership changes and policy shifts have caused friction. “Trust which has been built over years is very easy to destroy but difficult to rebuild,” the team observed. “It has to be continuously nourished.”
The monitors offered several recommendations to fix the process. They suggested extending the expired amnesty application deadline. They also called for more direct engagement between President Marcos Jr. and MILF leaders.
The group urged both sides to work together. “For the sake of lasting peace in the Southern Philippines, there is no alternative in Manila to maintain commitment to the implementation of the CAB until all objectives of the peace process have been achieved,” the TPMT stated.
The monitors believe the current administration can still reach an exit agreement. They view this as a unique chance for the country. “The chance to complete the substantial implementation of the CAB is a golden opportunity for the Philippines, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hand to future generations more peaceful and prosperous Bangsamoro region, and country.”
Uncertain Future of Bangsamoro Peace Process
