MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Mel Senen Sarmiento as the new chairman of the Government Peace Implementing Panel negotiating with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Malacañang announced on Wednesday.
The new assignment will be concurrent with Sarmiento’s role as Presidential Peace Adviser. He replaces retired military general Cesar Yano, who resigned in February.
According to Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, Sarmiento will oversee the advancement of the peace process with the MILF to achieve lasting peace in the Mindanao region.
He is the sixth chairman of the government peace panel expected to drive initiatives toward achieving total peace in the Bangsamoro region.
The official possesses extensive experience and expertise in local government and public administration, making him well-suited for the position as the government pursues lasting peace in the Mindanao region, Castro noted.
