WestMinCom Chief Meets BARMM Interim Chief Minister, Vows Stronger Peace and Security Ties

By Sherman Calotes | Mindanao People's Press

Cotabato City — May 15, 2025

In a strategic move to reinforce peace and development in the Bangsamoro region, Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete paid a courtesy visit to Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua on Wednesday, days after the 2025 National and Local Elections.

The high-level meeting was held at the Bangsamoro Government Center, Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex in Cotabato City, and was also attended by Maj. Gen. Donald Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central.

Both military and BARMM officials underscored the importance of tighter coordination between the Armed Forces and the regional government to sustain peace gains and fast-track inclusive development in the region.

Among the key issues discussed were the full activation and operationalization of the Bangsamoro Task Force on Ending Local Armed Conflict (BTF-ELAC) down to the provincial and municipal levels. The initiative is seen as crucial in addressing persistent security threats, curbing community-based violence, and advancing infrastructure development in conflict-affected areas.

Lt. Gen. Nafarrete and Interim Chief Minister Macacua also tackled the strengthening of normalization efforts specifically programs aimed at transforming former combatants into productive members of society. Plans are underway for the establishment of a TESDA accredited training center designed to equip decommissioned fighters with skills and livelihood opportunities as part of their reintegration process.

The meeting also delved into the challenges faced during the recent elections, with both sides expressing commitment to enhancing security protocols ahead of the upcoming BARMM parliamentary and barangay elections scheduled in October and December, respectively.

Chief Minister Macacua reiterated BARMM’s dedication to open communication and partnership with local government units to ensure that public services and socio-economic projects are not only felt by the grassroots but are also sustainable in the long term.

"This meeting reflects our shared commitment to lasting peace, effective governance, and genuine development in the Bangsamoro," Macacua said.

The dialogue between WestMinCom and BARMM leaders signals a renewed era of collaboration, with both camps eager to turn post-conflict aspirations into concrete realities for the Bangsamoro people.