The passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) will make peace and prosperity possible in Mindanao within President Rodrigo Duterte’s term.
This is according to House Agriculture Committee Chairperson and ANAC-IP Rep. Jose Panganiban, Jr., who on Monday said indigenous peoples (IPs) in Mindanao are set to benefit from the minimization of conflict in the area, as IPs are among the most vulnerable groups during times of disquiet.
President Duterte on July 26 signed the BOL, which was presented in a formal ceremony in Malacañang yesterday.
“Economic development and progress is a crucial factor in attaining lasting peace.
“The BOL’s passage is a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. I am confident that this law will usher much-awaited peace and development in Mindanao,” said the legislator.
“Economic development and progress is a crucial factor in attaining lasting peace. By handing the Bangsamoro the keys to self-government, they can now chart their development based on their own needs,” added the solon.
The BOL will also ensure peaceful co-existence of the diverse groups in Mindanao, including the Lumads, said Panganiban.
Panganiban added that the President should be given credit for finally getting the law across the threshold.
“The BOL’s passage is a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. I am confident that this law will usher much-awaited peace and development in Mindanao.”
“He deserves massive credit for fulfilling his campaign promise and uniting both Houses of Congress to enact the BOL,” stressed Panganiban.
Nonetheless, the party-list rep warned against being complacent now that the law has been passed.
“Passing the law is only half the battle, but its objectives will only be attained if the nation rows in one direction in implementing it. In this regard, I am hopeful that all the stakeholders are ready to work together to lay the groundwork for a peaceful, progressive Mindanao.”
