Robredo: Peace in Mindanao within reach with BOL ratification

MANILA, Philippines — The ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) is a step towards lasting peace in Mindanao, Vice President Leni Robredo said Friday evening.

Robredo noted that peace in Mindanao appeared impossible years ago but thanks to the sacrifice and patience of stakeholders, BOL will be implemented for residents of Muslim Mindanao.

“Sa matagal na panahon, marami marahil ang nagsabing mananatiling pangarap lamang ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao.  Ngayon, pagkatapos ng ilang taon ng pagsisikap at pakikipag-usap, sakripisyo at paniniwala, sa wakas, ang pangarap na ito ay abot-kamay na rin natin,” she said in a statement.

For so many years, many believed that peace in Mindanao would remain a dream. Now, after years of discussions, sacrifice and belief, at last, that dream is within reach).

“Buong-buo ang aking pananalig na kapayapaan ang magdadala sa bawat mamamayan ng Bangsamoro ng magandang buhay,” she added.

(I believe that peace will improve the lives of the Bangsamoro region).

On Friday evening, the BOL was ratified after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) finished canvassing the results of the plebiscite held last Monday.

READ:Comelec: ‘Yes’ votes win first round of BOL referendum

According to the Vice President, the event is a historic victory for Filipinos.

However, she asked people to still watch over the processes, as the search for peace does not end with BOL ratification. /gsg