Cotabato City Mayor Mohammad Ali “Bruce” Matabalao has resigned from the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the political arm of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The move comes just three months before the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections scheduled for September 14th. Matabalao was previously supported by the UBJP during his successful 2022 mayoral campaign. His departure signals a potential shift in the political landscape ahead of the upcoming polls. The reason for his resignation has not been publicly disclosed. This decision could impact the UBJP’s influence in Cotabato City and the broader Bangsamoro region. The elections will determine the composition of the Bangsamoro Parliament.