Jamayka Rhose Pascual

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) leaders expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, recognizing him not only as the head of the Catholic Church but as a global advocate for peace and unity.

Photo Courtesy of Facebook/Bangsamoro Government/Vatican Media.

BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua offered heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church, the Christian communities within BARMM, and to all who grieve the loss of the pope.

In his statement, Macacua reflected on Pope Francis’ lifelong dedication to justice, compassion, and interfaith dialogue, values that have guided the Bangsamoro’s own pursuit of harmony and reconciliation.

He emphasized that the pope’s voice reached far beyond the walls of the Vatican, touching the hearts of Muslims in Mindanao who saw in him a sincere ally in the global call for peace.

Macacua also described the pope as a beacon of hope in uncertain times.

“The news of his passing brings profound sadness as Pope Francis was a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and interfaith dialogue,” he wrote in his statement.

Macacua recalled how Pope Francis continuously called for an end to violence, especially in conflict-stricken regions.

“Testament to this were his persistent and heartfelt appeals for peace in the Middle East, especially in the face of atrocities in Palestine,” he added.

In a similarly heartfelt tribute, Bangsamoro Member of Parliament Naguib Sinarimbo spoke of the pope’s enduring moral influence and how his commitment to human dignity cut across political and religious lines.

Sinarimbo highlighted the Pontiff’s support for the peace process in Mindanao, particularly when he once offered his words of encouragement to those striving for an end to decades of armed conflict in the region.

“We remember with profound gratitude the expression of support of His Holiness in 2015 for the peace process in Mindanao,” Sinarimbo said.

He then stated that the Pope’s message of mutual understanding and reconciliation carried great weight, particularly for communities like theirs, whose history has been shaped by both struggle and hope.

In remembering the pope, Sinarimbo emphasized that the pursuit of peace is a responsibility shared by all, regardless of belief or background.

“Farewell, Pope Francis. Indeed, among the People of the Book, we find a true friend in pursuit of a just cause,” he expressed.