MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte expressed his hopes that the implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) would put an end to the conflict in Mindanao.
The president led the ceremonial signing of the BOL in Malacañan about two weeks after its signing was delayed due to the abrupt change of leadership at the House of Representatives.
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"Ten days ago, I signed into law the Organic Law for Bangsamoro Region for Muslim Mindanao which I hope will finally end the decades of conflict that is rooted in the Bangsamoro's pride for self-determination and recognition of their unique identity," Duterte said in his speech.
Duterte also expressed gratitude to the Bangsamoro Transition Commission, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front for their cooperation in pursuing the passage of the BOL.
LOOK: Pres. Duterte presents the BOL to MILF Al-Hajj Murad Ebrahim here in Malacañang @PhilippineStar @PhilstarNews pic.twitter.com/YIlOd5X2Hy
— Alexis B. Romero (@alexisbromero) August 6, 2018
LOOK: Scenes during the presentation of the BOL to the MILF here in Malacañang @PhilippineStar @PhilstarNews pic.twitter.com/wE7urPrPJV
— Alexis B. Romero (@alexisbromero) August 6, 2018
The president urged the Bangsamoro community, as well as indigenous communities and Christian residents in Bangsamoro areas, to participate in the upcoming plebiscite in the region.
"Let us give this law a chance to address the Bangsamoro people's aspiration for genuine autonomy while preserving our bond as a single nation and affirming the sovereignty of the indivisible Republic of the Philippines," Duterte said. — Patricia Lourdes Viray with reports from Alexis Romero