‘Stand together’

BOL in your hands President Rodrigo Duterte gave a strong pitch in favor of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, saying people who live in the poorest regions in Mindanao will benefit the most. MALACAÑANG PHOTO ">BOL in your hands President Rodrigo Duterte gave a strong pitch in favor of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, saying people who live in the poorest regions in Mindanao will benefit the most. MALACAÑANG PHOTO

President Rodrigo Duterte asked residents of Mindanao provinces sought to be included in the proposed Bangsamoro region to “stand together” in deciding the fate of the region which is buffeted by terrorism threats.

The President made one final pitch and appealed to voters in areas taking part in the plebiscite for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) on 21 January and 6 February to vote “Yes” if they truly want to achieve peace and progress in Mindanao.

“We must stand together. There are defects (to the law), but we must unite against violence, against IS (Islamic State). They don’t know anything except to kill,” Mr. Duterte said.

“We must insist against violence,” he added.

He noted the BOL will focus also on providing a man, whatever his religion may be, an entitlement to his place under the sun, Mr. Duterte said at the Peace Assembly for the Ratification of the BOL at the Office of the Regional Governor in Cotabato City.

“I will be there to help you until such time that the Bangsamoro territory will prosper,” he added.

The Chief Executive called on the locals from Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Isabela City in Basilan and Cotabato City to put up a united front as they troop to polling precincts on Monday to decide the fate of the proposed law.

“Three days from now, the people of ARMM, Cotabato City, Isabela and parts of Lanao del Norte and North Cotabato will exercise the right to vote in the plebiscite that will not just address the injustices of the past, but also plot the course toward a brighter future for Mindanao,” Mr. Duterte said.

“To my Bangsamoro brothers and sisters, I remind you that the power to chart the course of your future is in your hands. Let us use the plebiscite to correct the injustice committed against the Moro people. Let’s forget the bitterness of the past and move on to the future. Vote yes,” he added.

Calling the BOL one of his administration’s key pieces of legislation and a product of a “long and meaningful” process of consultation, the President stressed that the passage of the BOL will lead to “better governance, inclusive empowerment and enhanced systems of transparency and accountability.”

“This landmark law was not built entirely from scratch. It echoes the aspirations and principles embodied in the past peace agreements embodied in the different Moro fronts. Indeed, it is a product of blood, sweat and tears of many great men who came before us,” the President said.

He also made special mention of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari and assured him they will have their time to sit down and talk peace.

“First of all, though he’s not here but still he is a critical factor in the overall process of – not only Mindanao but the Philippines. And I refer to my good friend whom I respect very much also, Nur Misuari. I hope to talk to him in the coming days as we agreed. Sabi ko, tapusin muna natin ‘to. Hintuin natin ‘yung atin then again we can resume after the Bangsamoro,” Mr. Duterte said.

“I would call out to him, extend my hand and friendship and peace and I hope that we can (try to reach) an agreement that will also promote the interest of the MNLF and the rest of the Moro of Mindanao,” he added.

Brother to brother President Rodrigo Roa Duterte gives Moro National Liberation Front chair Nur Misuari a brotherly greeting prior to a meeting at the Matina Enclaves in Davao City. MALACAÑANG PHOTO A second plebiscite, meanwhile, is scheduled on 6 February where those residing in Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City, and six North Cotabato municipalities will have their turn to cast their votes.

Once ratified, the BOL will replace the ARMM with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao which will be overseen by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

“We are all for peace and nobody should steal your resources and allow you to remain poor forever. That cannot happen, that will not happen, at least under me,” Mr. Duterte told the audience.

“With an improved governance where you are allowed also to enter into agreements as long as it does not cause a disturbance in our financial system, we will allow the local governments to invite investments, get loans, to help your people, Mr. Duterte said.

Mr. Duterte also promised the proposed Bangsamoro region to secure all the resources promised to it under the BOL.

“The legendary Liguasan Marsh, they say it will provide many things in life. That is yours,” he said.

He added the government will not impose on the Bangsamoro government when it is already functioning.

“I guarantee you that there will be the least disturbance or interference once you have a workable governance,” he added.