Subair Guintaum Mustapha
Subair Guintaum Mustapha, also known as Sultan Bert Mustapha, is a lawyer, businessman, and recognized Sultan of Marawi. Born on July 9, 1952, he has extensive educational background in both secular and Islamic law. Mustapha previously ran for a seat in the House of Representatives for the First District of Lanao del Sur in 2022 under Reform PH - People's Party, finishing fourth. For the 2025 senatorial elections, he initially faced challenges when COMELEC declared him a nuisance candidate, but the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order on January 14, 2025, allowing his candidacy to proceed.
Education
- Bachelor's degree, Jamiatul Philippine Al-Islamia (1973)
- Bachelor of Laws, Manuel L. Quezon University (1977)
- Specialization in Shariah Law, Mindanao State University (1982)
- Master's degrees from Manuel L. Quezon University and University of the Philippines
Career Highlights
- Sultan of Marawi
- Director of the Maharlikha People's Party
- Lawyer specializing in both civil and Shariah law
- Businessman with interests in Lanao del Sur
- 2022 Congressional candidate for First District of Lanao del Sur
Key Platforms
Muslim Rights and Representation
Advocating for stronger representation of Muslim Filipinos in government and protection of their rights and cultural heritage.
Labor Reform and Workers' Rights
Promoting labor-centric policies aligned with his party's focus on workers' and peasants' welfare including better wages and job security.
Marawi Rehabilitation
Pushing for accelerated and comprehensive rehabilitation of Marawi City following the 2017 siege, with focus on proper compensation for displaced residents.
Economic Development in Mindanao
Supporting economic programs specifically targeting underdeveloped areas in Mindanao to reduce poverty and inequality.
Peace Process Support
Strengthening the peace process in Mindanao and ensuring proper implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law.
Track Record
Muslim Community Leadership
Serves as the Sultan of Marawi, providing cultural and community leadership in the area.
Legal Practice
Practiced law with expertise in both Philippine civil law and Islamic Shariah law.
Political Participation
Ran for Congress in Lanao del Sur's First District in 2022, demonstrating his commitment to public service.
Positions on Key Issues
| Issue | Position |
|---|---|
| Economy | Supports economic policies that prioritize workers' rights and fair distribution of resources with special focus on developing Mindanao's economy. |
| Education | Advocates for educational programs that respect and incorporate Islamic values while maintaining quality standards comparable to the national level. |
| Healthcare | Pushes for improved healthcare access in Muslim regions, especially in conflict-affected areas like Marawi. |
| Environment | Supports sustainable development practices that respect the traditional land rights of indigenous and Muslim communities. |
| Labor | As a candidate of the Workers and Peasants Party, strongly advocates for labor rights, including better wages, job security, and protection against exploitation. |
| Agriculture | Promotes agricultural development in Mindanao with particular attention to helping small farmers and agricultural workers gain fair market access. |
| Governance | Supports governance reforms that include proper representation of Muslim Filipinos in government institutions and decision-making processes. |
| Foreign Policy | Advocates for strengthening ties with Islamic nations while maintaining Philippine sovereignty in territorial disputes. |
| Charter Change | Supports constitutional amendments that would recognize greater regional autonomy, particularly for Mindanao and the Bangsamoro region. |
| Lgbtq Rights | Has not made specific public statements on LGBTQIA+ rights issues. |
| Drug War | Supports a more community-based and rehabilitation-focused approach to drug problems rather than militarized enforcement. |
| Icc | Supports cooperation with international bodies including the ICC on matters of human rights and accountability. |
Sources & Citations
- https://www.rappler.com/people/p82710540-subair-mustapha/
- https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/press-briefer-20/
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/eleksyon/2025/candidates/sultan-bert-mustapha/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Workers%27_and_Peasants%27_Party_(Philippines)
This profile is regularly updated with verified information from reliable sources. Last updated: April 24, 2025