MARAWI CITY— The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) praised the amnesty proclamations of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (PBBM).
In a statement, Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, BARMM spokesperson and Interior Minister, said the amnesty proclamation marks a significant milestone in achieving meaningful and lasting peace in Bangsamoro. He highlighted its role in the transformation of former combatants into productive and peace-loving Filipino citizens.
Sinarimbo also stated that the amnesty is consequential in fully implementing the Normalization Track under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
As part of the administration’s comprehensive peace initiatives, the President issued Proclamations 405 and 406 on November 22, granting amnesty to members of the MILF and MNLF, respectively, who have committed crimes punishable under the Revised Penal Code and Special Penal Laws to advance their political beliefs.
With this development, he expressed gratitude on behalf of the BARMM government and the Bangsamoro people to the national government for its unwavering commitment to the Bangsamoro Peace Process and all signed peace agreements.
“Once granted, amnesty will finally liberate our former combatants, MILF [Moro Islamic Liberation Front], and MNLF [Moro National Liberation Front] command leaders, from the shackles of the past that prevent them from genuinely and fully reaping the benefits of the peace dividends,” he further said.
The Interior Minister called on MILF and MNLF combatants to grab the opportunity and prepare to avail of the amnesty. He emphasized the BARMM government’s ongoing implementation of significant programs and services towards the development of Bangsamoro communities. The aim is to equip localities to offer former combatants some chances to lead productive lives in anticipation of the full implementation of the amnesty proclamations.
He likewise reaffirmed the commitment of the BARMM government to collaborate with the national government to ensure sustainable peace in the Bangsamoro region.
“We, in the Bangsamoro Government, are ready and willing to work with the National Amnesty Commission for the full implementation of the Amnesty Proclamations,” he emphasized. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. graces the first BARMM Local Legislative General Assembly in Davao City on November 14, 2023. (PCO)
