Manila: The Philippine government on Friday expressed its gratitude to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its resolution advocating for increased support to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). This resolution is seen as crucial given the peace, security, and development challenges currently facing the region, alongside its upcoming first parliamentary elections on October 13.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) highlighted that the OIC CFM Resolution No. 2/51-MM, which addresses "The Question of Muslims in the Southern Philippines," underscores OIC's steadfast backing of the Bangsamoro peace process. The resolution is viewed as a commitment to promoting dialogue and understanding between the Philippine government, Moro groups, and stakeholders.
OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. commended the OIC's dedication under Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha, emphasizing the importance of ongoing collaboration to achieve lasting peace in the region. He also acknowledged the OIC's recognition of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.'s strong commitment to unity and development in BARMM.
Galvez also reflected on the historical role of the OIC in facilitating peace agreements, including the 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 GPH-MNLF Final Peace Agreement. He urged the OIC to support the remaining commitments under the FPA, particularly the operationalization of the Bangsamoro Development Assistance Fund and the Tripartite Implementation Monitoring Committee.
Additionally, Galvez welcomed the OIC's endorsement of Abdulraof Macacua as the new Interim Chief Minister of BARMM, while acknowledging the contributions of former ICM Murad Ebrahim. He expressed appreciation for the OIC's commendation of the Philippine government's establishment of the National Amnesty Commission.
Lastly, Galvez reiterated the OPAPRU's alignment with the OIC's call to fortify the Bangsamoro Coordination Forum, aimed at harmonizing efforts between the Moro National Liberation Front and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, which have both signed significant agreements with the government in recent years.
