FORMER rivals from the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) and Serbisyong Inklusibo, Alyansang Progresibo (SIAP) have set aside their political differences, demonstrating unity following the May 12 elections in Lanao del Sur.
Their newfound camaraderie has caught the attention of neighboring cities like Cagayan de Oro.
Historically, Cagayan de Oro has served as a neutral ground where Muslim communities from Lanao del Sur and Marawi could gather to discuss misunderstandings or disputes.
“It’s a good sign that our politicians in Lanao del Sur and Marawi are now handling disputes professionally,” said Faisal Lantong, 40, owner of a carinderia in Cogon Market, Cagayan de Oro.
Lantong, a native of Balo-i, Lanao del Sur, who also has relatives in Marawi City, praised the politicians from these rival parties for resolving their differences peacefully.
Qadir Basman, a 58-year-old former army sergeant from Marawi City who owns a sari-sari store also in Cogon Market, noted that politicians used to settle disputes in a drastic manner.
“Masakit mang sabihin, pero iba ang settlement noong 80s at 90s; ang disagreement nila sa politika ay nagiging rido na,” said Basman.
He added that most politicians today are young and educated, which is why they are able to settle disputes more easily and fairly.
Out of 39 UBJP-backed mayoral candidates, only eight secured victory.
Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, a prominent UBJP leader, attended the symbolic oath-taking of local officials in Marawi City on June 30, signaling that the electoral contest has concluded and that the focus should now shift to collaboration.
Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal ‘Bombit’ Adiong Jr., who leads the local SIAP chapter, emphasized that Macacua’s presence symbolized a shared commitment to unity.
In a statement released July 3, Adiong encouraged both parties to prioritize peace and development initiatives that would benefit the residents of the province.
SIAP also secured key local positions, including the congressional seats held by reelected Reps. Zia Adiong and Yasser Balindong, as well as the mayoralty of Marawi City.
Macacua expressed his readiness to support local leaders and continue regional programs through the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm).
Meanwhile, the SIAP-led provincial government pledged to help expand the reach of the chief minister’s peace and community development efforts.
In his message, Macacua highlighted the importance of setting aside political rivalries — especially in Lanao del Sur, Barmm’s largest province — to foster lasting peace and progress.
