COTABATO CITY(February 20) — A Ramadan embrace went viral Wednesday night, as BARMM Interim Chief Abduraof “Sammy” Macacua and MILF chairman Al-Haj Murad Ebrahim publicly set aside months of tension.
Macacua arrived at Ebrahim’s official residence with his family, and the two leaders exchanged hugs and handshakes captured in videos now circulating across social media. The moment was more than a photo op—it was a signal that reconciliation may finally be taking root in the often fractious Bangsamoro leadership.
The pair’s relationship had been strained. Ebrahim’s removal from BARMM leadership drew criticism from hardline MILF supporters, while Macacua threatened investigations into petitions questioning his appointment. Yet both leaders recently issued Ramadan greetings calling for peace and conciliation.
At their meeting, they urged followers to curb divisive narratives and reaffirmed the bonds of brotherhood within the MILF and BARMM.
