Muslim leaders from five major organizations Wednesday expressed their support for the candidacy of independent presidential bet Nicanor Perlas and joined his coalition for new politics called Partido ng Marangal na Sambayanan (PANGMASA).

Leaders who have recently endorsed the candidacy of Perlas were Iman Faisal Baulo, Iman of the Manila Golden Mosque in Quiapo; Sultan Hadji Basher Alingan, chairman of Lanao del Norte Sultanate Group Movement; Sultan Manking Liawao of the Sultanate of Lanao Sur; Sultan Osop Guinto of the Moro National Liberation Front Group of Lanao del Norte; Datu Macabagul “Bobby” Paudac of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Returnist Group; and Sultan Jamael Ampaso.

Sultan Basher said they represent about 200,000 immediate members with a wider network of one million members who are now part of the Perlas’ coalition for new politics.

The Muslim leaders are part of the growing ranks of Perlas’ supporters that include Partido Kalikasan (PK), an emerging national Green political Party operating in 15 regions nationwide represented by Cagayan de Oro environmental lawyer Maning Ravanera, PK chairperson and national leader; Roy Cabonegro, secretary-general of PK; and Jules Penales, spokesperson of PK Metro Manila.

“The support of these Muslim leaders and their constituents is the basis for the possibility of a lasting peace in Mindanao. These leaders are supporting my candidacy and new politics because of the credibility of my Peace Platform,” Perlas said.

He pointed out that peace is situated in the larger context of integral sustainable development that recognizes the “primacy of social justice, broad-based and equitable economic development, and respect for the diverse identities of the Filipino people.”

Perlas added that under his peace platform, there will be meaningful and principled dialogue with the Muslim groups in Mindanao and consultation with the general public and appropriate civil society groups.