COTABATO CITY, Philippines — There will be no movie stars or street-dancing in this year’s commemoration of the anniversary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Instead, it will be marked with a muted celebration in the wake of terror attacks that claimed hundreds of lives around the world.
“Given recent events, we feel that it is best to direct our attention to expressing solidarity with the rest of the world that mourns over the countless deaths resulting from indiscriminate attacks against humanity,” ARMM’s spokesperson Amir Mawallil said.
Early this year, thousands were also displaced by the armed conflict in Maguindanao.
Mawallil said the executive committee of this year’s celebration has decided to cancel a number of events, including the street dancing competition and tribal parade.
Mawallil said this year’s celebration, although simple and modest, will still highlight the history of the region and its achievements over the past 26 years.
“It will pay homage to those who sacrificed their lives fighting for the Bangsamoro people,” Mawallil said in a statement.
“It will also underscore the agenda of peace and reform that Gov. Mujiv Hataman have set to ensure that the people will benefit from the regional government’s services and enjoy life without armed conflicts,” Mawallil added.
“Activities geared towards providing services and promoting a better understanding of Islam will push through, such as the ARMM People’s day and an exhibition of Quran readers who have recently won local and international competitions. Both events are scheduled for November 19,” he said.
The ARMM anniversary is commemorated every year in the month of November, following the creation of the region on November 6, 1990 by virtue of Republic Act 6734, during the administration of former President Corazon C. Aquino. SFM