Patikul, Sulu — In a bold and unified display of democratic participation, the peace-loving people of Sulu convened a People’s Assembly on June 1, 2025, in Barangay Kaunayan, Patikul, Sulu. The event, organized by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) through its provincial chapter, the Lupah Sug State Revolutionary Committee (LSSRC-MNLF), chaired by Mohammad John Usman, drew a distinguished gathering of leaders, community members, and policymakers to voice their collective sentiments on the re-inclusion of Sulu into the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
A Gathering of Unity and Advocacy
The Assembly served as a platform for the people of Sulu to express their unwavering support for the region’s re-inclusion into BARMM, emphasizing the cultural, historical, and socio-economic ties that bind Sulu to the broader Bangsamoro identity. The event highlighted the community’s desire for inclusive governance, equitable development, and lasting peace under the BARMM framework.
Key objectives of the Assembly included:
- Voicing Sentiments: Providing a democratic space for the people of Sulu to articulate their aspirations and recommendations regarding BARMM re-inclusion.
- Strengthening Unity: Reinforcing the solidarity between Sulu and BARMM through dialogue and shared advocacy.
- Policy Engagement: Presenting a unified stance to policymakers and stakeholders to ensure Sulu’s interests are represented in the BARMM governance structure.
Distinguished Leaders in Attendance
The Assembly was graced by the presence of MNLF Chairman Datu Muslimin G. Sema, who also serves as the Minister of the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE-BARMM). Chairman Sema underscored the importance of the Assembly in shaping the future of Sulu and the broader Bangsamoro region.
Other notable attendees included:
- Deputy Speaker MP Adzfar Usman
- MP Uttoh Salem Cutan, MNLF Secretary General
- MP Datu Faizal “Randy” Karon
- MP Baiali Karon, representing Anak MNLF
- Minister Abuamri Taddik, MNLF Deputy Secretary General for Political Affairs and Minister of the Ministry of Trade, Investment, and Tourism (MTIT-BARMM)
In his keynote address, Chairman Datu Muslimin G. Sema stated:
“The voices of the people of Sulu must be heard. Their call for re-inclusion into BARMM is not just a political aspiration but a testament to our shared history and collective future. The MNLF stands firmly with Sulu in this endeavor.”
MP Uttoh Salem Cutan, MNLF Secretary General, added:
“This Assembly is a milestone in our struggle for self-determination. The recommendations and sentiments expressed here will guide our advocacy as we work toward a more inclusive and equitable Bangsamoro.”
A Unified Call to Action
The Assembly culminated in a unanimous resolution urging the national government and BARMM leadership to prioritize the re-inclusion of Sulu into the autonomous region. Participants emphasized the need for:
- Cultural and Historical Recognition: Acknowledging Sulu’s integral role in the Bangsamoro narrative.
- Economic Integration: Ensuring Sulu benefits from BARMM’s development programs and investments.
- Political Representation: Guaranteeing Sulu’s voice in BARMM’s legislative and executive bodies.
Next Steps
The LSSRC-MNLF, in collaboration with BARMM officials, announced plans to formalize the Assembly’s recommendations into a policy proposal to be submitted to the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and the national government. The MNLF also pledged to organize similar assemblies across Sulu to amplify the people’s voices and sustain momentum for the cause.
