11/10/2025
Sympathy Message of Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity on the Passing of Ustadh Abdulbaki Abubakar
Innā Lillāhi Wa Innā Ilayhi Rājiún. To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.
On behalf of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), we join our Bangsamoro brothers and sisters, as well as the entire Muslim community, in mourning the passing of Ustadh Abdulbaki Abubakar, a highly respected scholar, religious leader, and peace advocate. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and constituents.
Ustadh Abdulbaki was a man of profound faith, intellect, and integrity. He completed his academic studies at the prestigious Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, where he specialized in the history of human civilization and Islamic jurisprudence. His scholarship and moral guidance reflected his lifelong dedication to service, faith, and the upliftment of his people.
As the Grand M***i of Region IX and Palawan under the Darul Ifta’s Supreme Council for Islamic Preaching and Guidance, Ustadh Abdulbaki faithfully carried out his role as a spiritual leader and moral guide, imparting wisdom and enlightenment to the communities he served. His leadership was marked by compassion, humility, and an unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and the principles of Islam.
As a peacebuilder and leader, Ustadh Abdulbaki held the position of Secretary General for the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Foreign Relations, under the leadership of Prof. Nur Misuari, where he worked diligently to strengthen the organization’s international partnerships and advance the MNLF’s diplomatic engagements in pursuit of freedom, justice, and self-determination for the Bangsamoro people.
Beyond his political and peacebuilding endeavors, Ustadh Abdulbaki was deeply committed to Da’wah (Islamic preaching) and education. He contributed to the establishment of Madaris (Islamic schools) and devoted his time to mentoring scholars and community leaders, embodying a life rooted in service to both faith and nation.
Ustadh Abdulbaki Abubakar leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, faith, and genuine public service that will continue to inspire those who remain steadfast in the pursuit of lasting peace and will be cherished by current and future generations of Bangsamoro citizens.
We extend our deepest sympathies and prayers to the family, friends, and colleagues of Ustadh Abdulbaki Abubakar. May Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala grant him eternal peace, solace, and a divine space in the highest place - Jannatul Firdaus. Allahumma Ameen!
