NewsPhilippine Center for Islam and Democracy Statement for the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) Plebiscite
Today marks a significant moment for Mindanao as the Bangsamoro finally puts into vote a law which will create a new governing entity that will provide the tools to resolve the issues that has long held the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao in reaching its full potential.
We at the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy hope for the success of the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) since it is our belief that a strengthened autonomy will lay the foundation for just peace and inclusive development crucial to the prevention of violent extremism in Mindanao.
The BOL provides fiscal autonomy, automatic appropriation of the block grant, funds for the rehabilitation and development of conflict-ridden areas, a judiciary based on Shari-ah laws, with safeguards ensuring that human rights for all will be protected and promoted.
However, let us all be reminded that BOL ratification is not a quick fix for the systemic problems of the region. Weak and poor governance in the autonomous region cannot be a resolved merely a change in law. It is up to the region’s leaders to effectively utilize the additional powers to ensure better governance.
In like manner, issues that affect nation such as inflation and the continued imposition of Martial law should be addressed by national government to mitigate negative impacts and further strengthen the region.
The vote for the BOL represents our hopes and dreams for a better future for our children. A future which can best be determined by the ARMM residents themselves in a democracy. Thus, whatever the result of the plebiscites, let us respect the differences in opinions, over ratification and inclusion or exclusion in the autonomy.
Ending decades of violent conflict and healing the divide caused by civil strife may not be accomplished overnight. Let us continue to support the people of the Bangsamoro as they choose their path towards peace and development that has long been overdue.