President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento as the new chairperson of the Government Peace Implementing Panel (PIP) for the Government of the Philippines–Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace process, a post he will hold concurrently with his current position.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced Sarmiento’s appointment during a Palace press briefing on Wednesday,

“Naitalaga bilang chairperson of Government Peace Implementing Panel for the Government of the Philippines-Moro Islamic Liberation Front (IMLF ) peace process si Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento,” Castro said.

Sarmiento is the sixth chairperson of the Government Peace Implementing Panel tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

He succeeds retired General Cesar Yano, who resigned from the post in February.

Last April 22, 2026, President Marcos tapped Sarmiento to head the OPAPRU, the office tasked to advance inclusive peace initiatives, strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders, and sustain programs that promote unity and development in conflict-affected and vulnerable communities. Presidential News Desk