Upholding a Peaceful Legacy: President Marcos Jr. Continues Bangsamoro Commitments
In a resolute step towards maintaining peace and unity, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to the Bangsamoro Peace Agreement.
With a keen focus on progress, the government is set to intensify its efforts to complete the decommissioning process for former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants before the year 2025.
A Priority for Peace: Acknowledgment and Gratitude
During a press conference on Saturday, Director Wendell Orbeso of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), expressed sincere gratitude to President Marcos Jr. for making the Bangsamoro peace process a central pillar of his administration’s legacy.
The director hailed this commitment as a testament to the President’s dedication to fostering lasting harmony.
Unwavering Dedication: A Promise to Fulfill Peace Agreements
Director Orbeso left no room for doubt as he articulated the President’s unflinching pledge to see the peace agreement through.
He emphasized that President Marcos Jr. remains resolute in implementing the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, a legacy initiated by his father under the Tripoli agreement. This legacy is not just a policy but a promise etched in the fabric of his leadership.
A Step Towards Transformation: Progress in Decommissioning
Significant progress was reported in the Bangsamoro peace process, particularly with the successful resumption of Phase Three Decommissioning. The ceremony took place in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, symbolizing a significant stride towards normalizing the region.
Transition to Peace: A Vital Aspect of the Peace Process
Director Orbeso underscored the importance of the decommissioning process as a crucial facet of the peace agreement.
He highlighted its role as a catalyst for the transformation and reintegration of former combatants from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front into peaceful and productive civilian lives.
Steadfast Goals: Accelerated Decommissioning Ahead
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) has set ambitious targets, aiming to decommission a total of 40,000 combatants before the onset of the 2025 election period.
Director Orbeso revealed plans to initiate Phase 4 of the decommissioning, targeting 14,000 former MILF combatants within the year, to remain aligned with their overarching mission.
A Shared Commitment: Trust and Cooperation
Director Orbeso lauded the resumed decommissioning as a powerful testament to the steadfast partnership between the national government, President Marcos Jr., and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
He emphasized the significance of mutual trust and confidence driving the momentum towards a successful Bangsamoro Peace Process.
A Path Forward: A Legacy of Peace
The journey towards a harmonious Bangsamoro region began in 2017, marked by the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, followed by the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law and the transformative plebiscite in 2019.
Director Orbeso expressed optimism, foreseeing the signing of an exit agreement by 2025, as a testament to the fulfillment of commitments and the pursuit of lasting peace.
As President Marcos Jr. steers the nation towards a peaceful horizon, the commitment to the Bangsamoro Peace Agreement stands as a testament to the transformative power of unwavering dedication and cooperation.
