Respecting the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro: A Moral and Political Imperative for the President
The creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is not merely an administrative arrangement—it’s a profound political solution to the decades-long Bangsamoro question. This issue has persisted through conflict, negotiation, and hopes for genuine peace. At the heart of this achievement is the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro (CAB), which signifies the culmination of years of peace negotiation between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). To dismiss or undermine this agreement is to disregard the very foundations of sustainable peace.
The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), led by the MILF, embodies the spirit of the CAB. It reflects the Moro people’s aspirations for self-governance and recognition of their unique identity.Treating the BTA as simply another government office, subject only to presidential whims, undermines the political significance of this peace process.
It is crucial that the President honor the CAB as the final and legitimate peace agreement between the GPH and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Respecting this accord is essential for maintaining the integrity of the negotiations and fostering genuine reconciliation. The CAB represents the commitment of both parties to resolve the Bangsamoro question through political means, not through conflict or unilateral actions.
Furthermore, the establishment of BARMM is a recognition of the Moro people’s right to self-determination within Philippine sovereignty, an essential step toward addressing historical injustices and marginalization. It is a concrete manifestation of their aspirations for autonomy and peace. Undermining this process at this stage would jeopardize the fragile gains achieved through arduous negotiations.
Unity among the Bangsamoro people is vital. They must continue to rally behind the peace process and support the implementation of the CAB, especially the normalization tracks. There are no short cuts in this process; any attempt to fast-track or bypass critical steps risks destroying the sacredness and integrity of the peace agreements. Allowing shortcuts or rushed implementation could undermine the trust, compromise the processes, and ultimately threaten the future stability of BARMM.
The President’s respect for the CAB and the BTA demonstrates a commitment to peace, constitutional integrity, and the Moro people’s political aspirations. It sends a strong message that the government recognizes the validity of the peace process and its paramount importance in fostering sustainable peace and development in Mindanao.
The peace built on dialogue, negotiation, and mutual respect offers an opportunity for long-lasting stability. It is rooted in respect for autonomy, a commitment to uphold agreements, and genuine recognition of Bangsamoro aspirations. The President’s unwavering adherence to the CAB is crucial to ensure this peace process remains credible, legitimate, and successful, benefiting not only the Moro people but the entire nation. Allah knows best. (Note: This article is shared by BMN/BangsamoroToday with the author’s permission, Abdullah P. Salik, Jr.)
