Pope Francis hailed in BARMM as ally in Mindanao peace, Palestine

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The messages from prominent people in the BARMM reflect the depth of Pope Francis' influence beyond the Catholic world, particularly in a predominantly Muslim region that has long struggled for peace and recognition

COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Leaders in the Muslim-majority Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) took turns in expressing grief over the death of Pope Francis, hailing the late Roman Catholic leader as a key figure in global peace efforts and a rare voice of solidarity for the Palestinian people and the Mindanao peace process.

The messages from prominent people in the BARMM reflect the depth of the Pope’s influence beyond the Catholic world, particularly in a predominantly Muslim region that has long struggled for peace and recognition.

“We join our Catholic brothers and sisters in mourning the loss of Pope Francis, a powerful voice for justice and peace in a world grappling with immense human suffering,” said BARMM Parliament Member Naguib Sinarimbo.

Sinarimbo, a former regional interior minister and long-time Moro rights advocate, said the late Pope’s words and actions resonated with Muslim Filipinos, particularly his support for Palestinians and his 2015 expression of support for the peace process in Mindanao.

“Philippine Muslims were deeply touched by his solidarity,” he said, referring to the Pope’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. “Farewell, Pope Francis. We have lost a true friend in the pursuit of a just cause.”

BARMM Chief Minister Abduraof “Sammy” Macacua echoed the sentiments, leading the regional government in mourning the pontiff.

“The Bangsamoro Government extends its deepest condolences to all who mourn the loss of Pope Francis,” Macacua said.

A separate statement released by the BARMM government described the Pope as “a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and interfaith dialogue.” 

It also highlighted his “persistent and heartfelt appeals for peace in the Middle East, especially in the face of atrocities in Palestine.”

Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and Latin American pope, was known for his outreach to marginalized communities and his efforts to foster interreligious dialogue. His death has drawn tributes from faith and political leaders worldwide, including from predominantly Muslim regions such as BARMM.

In neighboring Sultan Kudarat, former beauty queen Sharifa Akeel-Mangudadatu, Mutya ng Pilipinas–Asia Pacific International 2018, offered a personal tribute on social media.

Akeel, who is of Qatari and Maguindanaon descent and was born in the town of Lebak, shared a message of unity and compassion on her Facebook page.

“Faith comes in many forms, but compassion and humanity unite us all.

“As a Muslim who was taught to stand in solidarity with those who grieve, I extend my deepest condolences to Pope Francis and the entire Catholic community during this time of sorrow.

“Pope Francis’s life of service, humility, and mercy has inspired millions, including those outside his faith.

“In these moments of pain, may we remember that love, faith, and kindness know no boundaries,” she wrote. – Rappler.com