Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus G. Dureza GSD File Photo.
- Advertisement -

 

By Teng Lauban Datu
Cotabato City Bureau Chief .

- Advertisement -

MAGPET, Cotabato — Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza said the recently-passed Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) will benefit not just certain groups but all those who desire peace and development in Mindanao.

“This (BOL) is not only for the Moro National Liberation Front, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the Bangsamoro people but for all,” Dureza told hundreds of residents gathered here for the 55th anniversary celebration of the Municipality of Magpet.

“There must be inclusivity, not exclusivity,” he said, emphasizing the fact that the historic law, which was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on July 27, recognizes the diversity and ethnicity of the people of Mindanao, especially the indigenous peoples.

“We really need to give attention to our Lumad. Each (tribal) group has its own perspective and concerns,” he said, noting that Magpet’s 29 barangays have tribal groups in their respective populations.

Dureza said this is the reason why issues confronting Mindanao’s indigenous peoples should not be ignored but be decisively addressed by government.

Recognizing this reality, Dureza said the current peace and security situation in Mindanao cannot be resolved mainly through military force.

“We are not only negotiating for peace but also helping to improve the lives of the people,” he said.

In a separate consultation meeting with members of the Lumad community here, Dureza assured the indigenes of the national government’s continued support.

He said this is the reason behind the establishment of the IP Peace Panel which is being headed by lawyer Reuben Lingating.

At the same meeting, Lingating noted that 28 years after the passage of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act Law, Mindanao’s indigenous peoples still have to enjoy its benefits. (with reports from peacegov.ph)

Disclaimer

Mindanao Gold Star Daily holds the copyrights of all articles and photos in perpetuity. Any unauthorized reproduction in any platform, electronic and hardcopy, shall be liable for copyright infringement under the Intellectual Property Rights Law of the Philippines.

- Advertisement -