COTABATO CITY (October 27) — Calls are growing louder for the Office of the Ombudsman in Mindanao to act on long-pending administrative and criminal charges against former Sultan Kudarat Governor Suharto “Teng” Mangudadatu—just as he makes a bid to become the next Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Reports indicate Mangudadatu is attempting to enter the Bangsamoro Parliament as a replacement nominee through a political party to position himself for the region’s top executive post.
However, pending legal complaints and allegations of political maneuvering are raising sharp concerns over public accountability and the integrity of the BARMM leadership selection.
The Legal Troubles: What Are the Charges?
Back in January 2023, complainants Mastura M. Usman and Nhoraidha P. Ebus filed twin administrative and criminal cases against Mangudadatu (OMB-M-C-JAN-23-0012 and OMB-M-A-JAN-23-0012).
The cases stem from his tenure as governor following his 2019 election victory and outline serious charges:
Criminal Charges: Alleged violations of Republic Act 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) and Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code (Usurpation of Authority or Official Functions).
Administrative Charges: Allegations of grave misconduct, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, and violations of the Local Government Code.
The Residency Issue: Case files cite COMELEC certifications showing that while serving as Sultan Kudarat governor, Mangudadatu transferred his voter registration and residence to Datu Abdullah Sangki,Maguindanao, on September 27, 2021.
High Stakes for the Peace Process
With the Bangsamoro Parliament gearing up to elect its next Chief Minister, local observers and lawmakers warn that the stakes could not be higher for regional stability.
“Coercion, bribery, deception, or other unlawful means must not be allowed to determine the outcome of the Bangsamoro leadership selection process,” warned an elected Member of Parliament who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
The lawmaker stressed that any manipulation of the selection process threatens to erode public trust in the institutions built through hard-won peace agreements.
What Lies Ahead?
As pressure mounts on the Ombudsman to issue a definitive ruling, BARMM residents and political observers are watching closely. A swift resolution is seen as vital to clearing legal uncertainty and safeguarding public confidence before the parliament makes its choice.
Note: Efforts to reach Mangudadatu for comment were unsuccessful as of publication.
