Gov’t focus on BARMM peace, normalization solid, says SAP

The government is focused on ensuring the success of the peace and normalization process in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), a top official said Wednesday.

Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo Jr. made the commitment during an awards ceremony for educational assistance to former combatants of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

"Our President envisions a society that prioritizes not only peace but also the human rights of every Filipino," Lagdameo said. "The program we are implementing today is a testament to our united desire for these goals."

The program is part of the normalization initiative under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, which aims to help former MILF combatants start new lives and enable their children to pursue an education.

Lagdameo said education is a top priority for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has emphasized free education and additional financial aid for students.

"We have made significant progress toward our normalization targets, yet we recognize there is still much work to be done," Lagdameo said. "We also acknowledge that certain mechanisms within the peace process need reevaluation to ensure they are truly responsive, inclusive, and effective in addressing on-the-ground realities."

Lagdameo expressed gratitude to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, the Inter-Cabinet Cluster Mechanism on Normalization and other government and civil society organizations for their support. He also announced a personal donation of P1 million for the educational assistance of students at Mindanao State University.

Lagdameo urged the student-grantees to use the opportunity for their personal success and to serve their communities.

"When you succeed, may you also give back — not only to your families but also to your communities," he said.