Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region Founding Prime Minister Haji Murad Ibrahim has called on the international community, particularly the Islamic world, to assist in the development of the Bangsamoro region.

Speaking to ILKHA, Ibrahim said the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region continues to face significant development challenges despite enjoying self-governance under the autonomy framework.

"The Bangsamoro is still enjoying an autonomous government. Our area is the most underdeveloped area. There is no development in the area," Ibrahim said.

He urged the international community, especially Muslim-majority countries and Islamic organizations, to help improve infrastructure, economic opportunities and living conditions in the region.

"We need to solicit the international community, especially the Islamic world, to help us in order to develop our area, our homeland, and be able to be at par with other people in the Philippines," he said.

Ibrahim also highlighted the significance of the upcoming September elections, which will mark the first parliamentary elections to be held under the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region's autonomous government.

He expressed optimism that the MILF would secure a majority in the regional parliament, enabling it to form the next government and continue implementing its development agenda.

"We look forward that during this election, we will be able to win the majority seats in the government in order to be able to form the government," Ibrahim said.

The MILF leader emphasized that the international community could play an important role in ensuring the credibility of the electoral process by supporting election-related activities and helping safeguard free, fair and transparent voting.

He stressed, however, that international engagement should not end with the elections.

"Not only during this election, but the continuous support and help of the international community is very much needed to develop our area," Ibrahim said.

Describing Bangsamoro as a predominantly agricultural region, Ibrahim said future development efforts should focus on agriculture, commerce and industry to create jobs, improve livelihoods and strengthen the regional economy.

"Our area is mostly an agricultural area. So, we need projects and programs that are more aligned with agriculture, commerce and industry," he said.

He added that the Islamic world and international development partners could make a significant contribution by investing in long-term economic and social development initiatives.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region was established as part of the peace process between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, replacing the former Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. The upcoming parliamentary elections are widely regarded as a major milestone in the implementation of the Bangsamoro peace agreement and the region's transition toward fully functioning autonomous governance.

Observers say the outcome of the elections will play a crucial role in shaping the future political and economic direction of the Bangsamoro region, while continued international support is expected to remain an important factor in advancing peace, stability and sustainable development. (ILKHA)