‘Support BBL approval, join journey to peace’

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles appealed anew to the public to unite for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as the Senate and the House of Representatives re-open sessions on July 27 and resume their deliberations on the proposed measure.

Deles made the call as Muslim Filipinos in the country recently celebrated Eid Fitr marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

"We call once more on the Muslim Filipino community, after having sacrificed and endured so much for generations, to be patient and remain walking with us on this arduous road to peace," Deles said.

Government of the Philippines (GPH) peace panel chair Prof. Miriam CoronelFerrer echoed Deles' message.

"May our Muslim brothers and sisters who fasted for peace and mutual understanding during the month of Ramadan reap the fruits of their sacrifice," she said.

Congressmen are expected to resume debates on House Bill No. 5811 or the Bangsamoro Basic Law at the plenary level while in the Senate, the Committee on Local Gov- ernments of Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos is expected to submit to the plenary its report endorsing its own version of the BBL.

"We cannot promise that the road to achieving long lasting peace will be easy, but we give you our most solemn vow: You will never feel alone in your journey to this righteous path," Deles assured.

Deles explained that a united stand by Muslim Filipino communities for the BBL’s passage will deliver a clear message to legislators of the Bangsamoro’s aspirations for peace and security under a regime of self-determination and self-governance.