Bangsamoro Peace Process Remains Robust Amid Challenges
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. affirmed that the Bangsamoro peace process remains robust despite recent challenges in implementing the 2014 peace agreement. Officials reported that both the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) continue to show unwavering commitment to the peace pact’s broader goals.
“The Bangsamoro peace process remains robust and dynamic owing to the steadfast commitment of both the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to its broader aims,” Galvez said in a statement on Tuesday, emphasizing the resilience of the ongoing efforts.
Internal Disagreements on Normalization Activities
Recent developments surfaced when MILF Chairman Murad Ebrahim instructed his ground commanders to refrain from participating in government-led normalization activities perceived as unilateral, particularly the decommissioning of combatants. Local leaders noted that this move reflects internal concerns within the MILF regarding the implementation approach.
In response, government sources highlighted that the administration remains fully committed to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). They regarded the MILF’s memorandum order as an internal matter, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue.
Dialogue Seen as Key to Resolving Differences
Officials underscored that open and sincere discussions between both parties are essential to overcoming the current differences. “We trust that both the government and the MILF are sincere in upholding the CAB and preserving the peace gains achieved so far,” a peace adviser remarked.
This approach aims to sustain the momentum of the peace process, ensuring that setbacks do not derail the progress made over the years.
Temporary Halt on Normalization Activities During Election Period
Due to the Commission on Elections regulations, some normalization activities, including the decommissioning of combatants and their firearms, have been temporarily paused. This pause coincides with the election period in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), which began on August 14 ahead of the historic parliamentary elections scheduled for October 13.
Community members noted that the election ban impacts activities connected to the peace process, requiring careful coordination to avoid violations.
Openness to Collaborative Efforts During Elections
Despite the temporary suspension, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity remains open to discussions with MILF leadership. They aim to identify programs that could be jointly implemented during the election period without breaching election rules.
Such collaboration is vital to maintaining peace and stability in the region while respecting the electoral process.
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