Marcos to Bangsamoro leaders: Protect the gains of peace
President Marcos on Monday urged the newly appointed members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to uphold their duties and responsibilities with integrity, reminding them that their goal should be geared towards a fair and progressive Bangsamoro.
In his speech after administering the oath of the newly appointed BTA members in Malacañang, Mr. Marcos underscored the critical role that officials will play in the lives of the Bangsamoro people.
“You will carry the aspirations of those who have longed for peace and self-governance. You will be instrumental to create a future built by and for the Bangsamoro people. Your names and the hopes of our countrymen are at stake in your sworn duty,” he added.
The President noted that the country’s years of conflict and misunderstanding have raged for too long.
“With you at the helm, I am confident that you will continue to prove that the implementation of every single signed agreement—is a step towards long-lasting peace,” he said.
The Bangsamoro peace process has made remarkable progress collectively, he said.
“It is our shared responsibility to protect these gains and to ensure their uninterrupted advancement. I take comfort in the fact that our country is as diverse as it is. Different faiths and histories shape our nation. Let not our diversity and difference be a hindrance to our solidarity,” he said.
“Let us remember that at the center of our national identity is a common thread that binds us: our longing for peace and for progress,” he added.
Mr. Marcos also reminded the BTA officials to serve fellow Filipinos with integrity and kindness.
“[O]ur small acts of benevolence can help dismantle the barriers that divide us as a nation… after the chaos, there will be peace and progress so long as we work together as one,” he said.
