By Azer N. Parrocha
MANILA, Dec 9 (PNA) — The signing by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) of the annex on power sharing last Sunday night was welcomed in the Senate Monday.
This annex, which will comprise the comprehensive agreement both by the government and the MILF, is one of four in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed by the two sides in October 2012.
Senate President Franklin Drilon, in a statement, lauded the government and MILF saying that the Senate fully supports the completion of all attempts to the completion of the peace process in Mindanao.
He said that the signing of the annex is an affirmation of how discussions based on desire for peace, justice and equality for both sides can “overcome even the most difficult and polarizing of obstacles”.
“Peace is the perfect gift to our brothers and sisters in Mindanao this season. I laud the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF),” Drilon said.
“With these recent successes, remains hopeful to finally be able to end the conflicts which have delayed economic and human developments in the region,” he added.
In behalf of the Senate, he said that he looks forward to seeing and finally scrutinizing the proposed law that will institute the necessary reforms called for in the Agreement.
“Absolutely, the passage of the Bangsamoro basic law will be given utmost priority in the Senate next year,” Drilon said.
Sen. Teofisto Guingona III also expressed appreciation for the annex, saying that despite the sensitivity of the issues, both panels were able to come up with a resolution that brings the country closer to achieving lasting peace in the region.
“With only one more Annex left to be passed by the panels, I look forward to sponsoring the Bangsamoro Basic Law in the Senate,” he added. (PNA)