The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has called upon the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to maintain its engagement with the national government regarding the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). In a statement released late Wednesday, OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. emphasized the collaborative nature of the transition.
“We encourage our MILF brothers and sisters to continue walking this path with us, as the peace process is a living testament of our partnership. We believe that the spirit of the CAB, rooted in the principles of jointness, bilateralism, and mutuality, is best honored by keeping the wheels of implementation turning,” Galvez stated.
While acknowledging the MILF leadership’s current concerns, Galvez reminded stakeholders that the lives of those relying on the peace process remain the priority. He noted, “We must remember that the CAB is more than just a peace accord. It is a sacred peace covenant. Every ‘temporary pause’ translates into a day of uncertainty for the former combatants, their families, and the communities currently undergoing the transformation process.“
Secretary Galvez stressed that these individuals deserve consistent support from both the national and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) governments. He further argued that the progress made under the Normalization Track must be accelerated, particularly with the inaugural BARMM parliamentary elections approaching. “The gains we have achieved, particularly under the Normalization Track, are far too precious to be stalled. It is our firm belief that the momentum of our peacebuilding efforts must be sustained,” he said.
Expressing confidence that shared goals will prevail over current hurdles, Galvez added, “For the sake of the Bangsamoro people and the future of our nation, let us move forward together with renewed urgency, determination, and heart.“
The Secretary also noted the MILF Central Committee’s acknowledgment of the peace agency’s “positive” role. He reaffirmed that under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the OPAPRU is dedicated to advancing peace dividends. Galvez clarified that while the OPAPRU manages the overall peace policy, the Government Peace Implementing Panel (GPIP) acts as the primary bridge for direct negotiations with the MILF. He concluded by stating that the internal selection of GPIP leadership should not hinder the ongoing work of peace mechanisms.| (PNA)
