THE new Bangsamoro chief minister Abdulraof Macacua will not be reshuffling the regional Cabinet, according to the first administrative memorandum his office released after assuming office.
Andrew Alonto, executive director of the Bangsamoro Information Office (BIO) told reporters a turnover was being arranged to take place between former Interim Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim and Macacua on March 27, 2025.
In his first administrative order, Macacua directed all Bangsamoro ministries, offices, and agencies (BMOAs) to just perform their usual functions under the current regional structures during the transition period.
“To ensure the seamless continuation of government functions and services, all concerned are hereby directed to continue performing their respective functions and duties. This directive remains in effect until the transition process is completed,” Macacua said in his memorandum.
He emphasized, however, that the status quo should not be taken lightly in terms of complacency. Rather it will be the start of a thorough performance review of all agencies and offices in the BARMM institutional structure.
Macacua first disclosed this during the oath-taking ceremony of newly appointed Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament members on March 15 in Malate, Manila.
“In the coming days, as your Chief Minister, I wish to reassure you that the ministries (offices and agencies) will maintain the status quo at this juncture,” Macacua said.
“This decision is not taken lightly, but it serves as a strategic measure that preserves the momentum and initiatives already in progress,” he added.
“By retaining the current structure, we lay a solid foundation to build upon, ensuring continuity in our governance,” he said.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “MILF commanders deny opposing Macacua, settle for new BARMM appointments.”