World Bank lauds ratification of BOL

The World Bank lauded the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) that seeks to promote lasting peace, stability and prosperity in the Philippines’ southern region. In a statement, the World Bank congratulated the Filipino people, particularly the Bangsamoros, for the ratification of the law, describing the measure as “a significant milestone” for Mindanao. But the multilateral institution noted that “much work” still needs to be done to fulfill the law’s goal of autonomous, secured and prosperous regions of Bangsamoro and Mindanao “The recent bombings in Jolo and the residual violence in some other places in conflict-affected areas following the BOL’s ratification highlights the complexity of challenges facing the region and the country,” the World Bank said. “The formation of the Bangsamoro is one important step that can put the country in a better position to address these drivers of conflict,” the World Bank said. (CSL)