EU lauds BOL ratification

Poll open Election officials get ready for the conduct of the plebiscite for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law. Based on the results of the 21 January 2019 plebiscite the Commission on Elections has declared the ratification of BOL which would pave the way for the creation of a Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao expected to usher in lasting peace in the region. FACEBOOK PHOTO

The European Union (EU) delegation on Saturday expressed its elation over the generally peaceful conduct of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite and lauded the Philippine government’s efforts in ensuring its success.

In a statement, the EU delegation also commended the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for their efforts that led to the success of the first phase of the plebiscite held 21 January.

“The creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is a significant milestone in the history of the Philippines,” the EU said.

“The European Union has been a staunch supporter of the Mindanao peace process throughout the years, expressing its political support, encouraging all sides to pursue a peaceful solution and providing substantial financial support for the process.”

Sitting as the National Plebiscite Board of Canvassers, the Comelec on Friday proclaimed the ratification of BOL after canvassing all four certificates of canvass of the plebiscite.

Likewise, the EU delegation wished the same success for the second phase of the plebiscite to be held on 6 February 2019.

The second BOL plebiscite will determine if the province of Lanao del Norte, the municipalities of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit and Pigkawayan in the province of North Cotabato will be part of the new autonomous political entity.