MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday urged the leaders in the Bangsamoro region to build on the progress of decades-long efforts to achieve lasting peace and progress in Mindanao as he administered the oath of newly appointed Members of Parliament of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) during a ceremony held at the Heroes Hall in Malacanang.

The event came months before the conduct of the historic first BARMM Parliamentary Elections in October 2025.

“To my fellow government workers in the Bangsamoro who pledged to uphold the trust of your constituents, you will carry the aspirations of those who have longed for peace and self-governance. You will be instrumental to create a future built by and forged by the Bangsamoro people. Nakataya ang inyong mga pangalan at pag-asa ng ating mga kababayan sa inyong sinumpaang tungkulin. Huwag nating makakalimutan na inyong tungkulin ay para sa mas makatarungan at mas maunlad na Bangsamoro,” Marcos Jr. said in his speech.

The Philippine leader acknowledged the progress in the Bangsamoro peace process, as he reiterated the shared responsibility to protect these gains and ensure its advancement.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the years of conflict and misunderstanding in our country have raged too long. With you at the helm, I am confident that you will continue to prove that the implementation of every single signed agreement is a step towards long lasting peace,” he said.

Marcos Jr. meanwhile highlighted amid the beauty of the country’s many faiths, cultures, and history, the country’s diversity and difference should not be a hindrance to solidarity.

“Let us remember that at the center of our national identity is a common thread that bind us: our longing for peace and progress,” he said.

The Philippine leader also led the celebration of the Grand Iftar, which is a special feast that marks the end of Ramadan.

Marcos Jr. shared that even as a Catholic, he finds the occasion “deeply moving and profoundly meaningful,” as it serves as a reminder that sustenance is both physical and spiritual.

“It reminds us that our bonds are tightly held together by what we practiced and what we believe in,” he siad.

“On this beautiful afternoon, we take heart that after a period of fasting there will always be bountiful meal shared amongst brothers and sisters. After the hunger and the thirst, there will be fulfillment, and after the chaos, there will be peace and progress so long as we work together as one.”