President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed confidence in Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua’s leadership of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), emphasizing its role in ensuring a smooth shift to the region’s first parliamentary elections.
Macacua, currently the governor of Maguindanao del Norte, replaces Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, who has led the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) since its transition from the former Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in 2019.
Macacua steps into the position at a critical time as BARMM prepares for its 2025 polls. The President said his administration remains committed to supporting the region’s transition and strengthening its governance.
“His leadership comes at a crucial time as we prepare for the region’s first parliamentary elections—ensuring a smooth transition and a stronger future for the Bangsamoro people,” Mr. Marcos said in a Facebook post.
In a separate post, the president also swore in former Zamboanga del Sur governor and ex-environment secretary Antonio Cerilles as Presidential Adviser on Mindanao Concerns.
“Tony has spent decades serving the people—as governor, congressman, and DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) Secretary. His experience will be invaluable as we continue working to bring real progress to Mindanao,” Marcos said.
The appointments come as the government intensifies efforts to sustain peace and economic growth in Mindanao, particularly in the BARMM region.