Marcos Administration Affirms Commitment to Peace Pact Responsibilities

Manila: The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. has reiterated the Marcos administration's dedication to fulfilling the national government's obligations outlined in the signed peace agreements. Galvez emphasized this commitment at the Joint Normalization Committee's event, which marked the launch of the coffee table book 'Metamorphosis: A Decade's Journey to Peace' on November 19. This book details a decade's worth of milestones, lessons, and progress under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

According to Philippines News Agency, Galvez assured that the OPAPRU is steadfast in executing the remaining deliverables under the peace agreements, as directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. He highlighted that the accelerated implementation of the Normalization Program is crucial in ensuring the sustainability of the peace dividends. The decommissioning of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants and their reintegration into mainstream society, along with socio-economic interventions, are pivotal to the government's peacebuilding initiatives.

Galvez expressed hope that the collective efforts to serve as guardians of peace would ensure the sacrifices made by previous peace champions are honored and sustained. He acknowledged the contributions of former Philippine presidents in advancing the Bangsamoro peace process. He specifically recognized the late President Benigno Aquino III for facilitating talks with the MILF and advocating for the CAB's passage, and former President Rodrigo Duterte for implementing the agreement through the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

The Marcos administration remains unwavering in its commitment to implement all signed peace agreements, ensuring their success before their conclusion.