Robredo gets historic endorsement from MILF party

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 23)— The political party of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has thrown its support for the presidential bid of Vice President Leni Robredo.

Officials of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) — including Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim — made the formal announcement in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat on Saturday.

This is the first time the MILF is endorsing a presidential candidate for the elections.

Murad cited how Robredo has consistently supported the advocacies of the Bangsamoro.

“[W]hen we needed allies in Congress, and as Vice President of the Philippines, Leni Robredo was there for us," Murad said. “She was there for Marawi. She makes time for the Bangsamoro.”

“In the many engagements with her on specific concerns of the Bangsamoro, we feel her compassion and support. Leni Robredo is not just a talk, she acts,” he added.

Robredo — who personally graced the event — thanked the UBJP for the support and vowed to focus on measures to help the Bangsamoro people.

Among these measures include completing the rehabilitation of Marawi, and helping other poverty-stricken communities and vulnerable sectors.

The MILF party’s move comes amid reports that some governors of the Bangsamoro Region have expressed their support for Robredo’s rival, former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos. Sulu governor Abdusakur Tan is the latest official to declare an endorsement.