Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Hundreds of MILF members arriving in Manila for Peace

Philippine President Benigno Aquino 
exchanged souvenirs with MILF  
leader Murad Ebrahim in Malacanang
Palace, Manila, Monday (15/10/2012)
ahead of the signing of the peace 
agreement between the Philippine 
government and the MILF
(Photo: Reuters)
MANILA - About 200 militants MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) on Monday (15/10/2012) finally signed a peace pact that will begin the long road map for peace to stop the violence that occurred for over 40 years.

Philippine President Benigno Aquino and MILF leader Murad Ebrahim witnessed the signing of the peace pact in the Presidential Palace in Manila. Come see also the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Najib Razak, the facilitator of the peace efforts since March 2001.


"There is still a lot of work to do before we actually reap the fruits of this deal. We are committed to live, we have the people who have led and have a dream to be realized," Aquino said before the signing begins at Malacanang Palace. "We are committed to helping our associates manifest themselves in a political party that could help the transition region towards genuine peace and progress," added Aquino.


After the signing, Aquino is expected to soon issue a decree to form a 15-member transition committee to establish new laws in 2015 to form the local government for the Muslims 'Bangsamoro', the name given to the Moro their homeland.

A ballot will then be held to determine the extent and form of the new Bangsamoro region.

The new self-government later had political power and control over natural resources, including minerals, oil and gas than it is today. Meanwhile, currency, postal service, defense and security of the region remains under the control of the Manila government.

This agreement does not give the details related to the division of powers between the national government and the Bangsamoro. However, this agreement guarantees rights for both Muslims and non-Muslims in the region.

"Political Negotiation is the most civilized and practical way to solve the Moro problem," said Murad Ebrahim in his speech.


Source:  Reuters

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