PRESIDENT Ferdinand ‘Bong-bong’ R. Marcos Jr., on Monday pledged unwavering commitment and the exercise of ‘strong political will’ to ensure the success of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
In his address, he emphasized the importance of a collaborative “whole-of-society” approach and the necessity of fostering strong partnerships between the government and locals to stimulate development within the region.
During the commemorative event of the 10th Anniversary of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), President Marcos urged unity and collective effort.
“Let us continue to work together and march in unison as we implement our whole-of-society approach in our mission to uplift the lives of the people of Bangsamoro,” he extolled, reinforcing the government’s dedication to the region’s upliftment.
Reaffirming his dedication to the normalization process within the Bangsamoro communities, President Marcos specifically addressed the integration of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members.
He pointed out the importance of the upcoming amnesty applications being handled by the National Amnesty Commission.
The quest for peace was a recurring theme in the President’s speech, where he recollected the recent Intergovernmental Relations Body meeting he attended in February—his sixth since assuming office.
He underscored the continuous nature of the peace process and the necessary dedication to achieving its long-term goals.
President Marcos recounted his visit to Basilan to witness the decommissioning of weapons, a significant step towards lasting peace.
“Kasunod nito ang pagdalaw ko sa Basilan upang masaksihan ang decommissioning ng mga baril at armas. Ito ay pagpapakita lamang na marami pang gagawin para makamit na natin ang kapayapaan at kaunlaran na ating minimithi,” he stated, acknowledging the long journey ahead.
In his remarks, President Marcos acknowledged the complex and enduring nature of the peace-building process. “This is not an easy job. It’s not the work of a day, it’s not the work of a month, it’s a work of a lifetime. Ang mahalaga ay patuloy ang pag-uusap at paghahanap ng solusyon sa lahat ng hinaharap natin,” he emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue and solution-finding.
The President further highlighted that peace is cultivated through honest dialogue and openness, which leads to stronger and more enduring agreements.
He stressed the importance of sustained efforts, irrespective of political trends, in achieving peace and development.
“And, as President, I will exercise that strong political will for the success of the Bangsamoro region,” he affirmed.
“Kailangan buo ang loob natin dito kasi marami pang trabahong naghihintay sa atin,” Marcos added, signaling his preparedness to face the challenges ahead.
The ceremony that the President graced marked a historical chapter, taking place in Camp Iranun in Barira, Maguindanao del Norte.
This site bears historical significance as a former stronghold of the MILF and the dwelling of its founder, Ustadz Salamat Hashim.
The anniversary commemorated the signing of the CAB on March 27, 2014, which concluded peace talks that had been ongoing since 1997 and marked a decade since the agreement catalyzed numerous political and normalization achievements.
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