Palace ‘hopeful’ of ratification of Bangsamoro Organic Law

Malacañang Palace as seen from across the Pasig River (Photo from malacanang.gov.ph)

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañan Palace is “hopeful” that the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) will be ratified, presidential spokesperson Salavador Panelo said in a statement issued on Sunday, the eve of the plebiscite on the proposed measure.

“While the President would respect whatever decision the public makes during the plebiscite and comply with the sovereign voice of the people in Mindanao, we are hopeful that the BOL, which would pave the way for a Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, would be ratified,” Panelo said.

“The President has already urged the voters to vote yes for for peace and development in Mindanao,” he added.

READ: Duterte: Vote ‘yes’ for Bangsamoro Law

Panelo described the BOL as a “historic piece of legislation in our quest for lasting peace in Mindanao,” citing that it would correct “historical injustices” committed against the Moro people.

“The President is committed to use his constitutional powers to unify the Bangsamoro people and end the strife that has impeded the growth and development of Mindanao,” Panelo said.

The first plebiscite for the BOL was set for Jan. 21, while the second day will be on Feb. 6.

The first part of the plebiscite will see voters from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Cotabato City, and Isabela City in Basilan decide on the fate of the BOL.

The rest of the core territories, including areas that asked to be included in the proposed new Bangsamoro area, will get to vote on the second part.

The BOL seeks to replace an existing poverty- and conflict-wracked ARMM with a potentially larger, better-funded and more powerful region named Bangsamoro for the minority Muslims. /atm