Help explain draft Bangsamoro law, Mindanao mayors asked

MANILA, Philippines - Help the government explain the salient features of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to your constituents, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles has called on Mindanao mayors.

Deles made the call during the recent Mindanao Island Conference of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines in Clark, Pampanga, saying there should be a “fair, transparent, and sober discussion” on the proposed law.

“I urge you…to hold public forums to help the public get a better understanding of the proposed BBL, and get the public involved in understanding its salient points,” she said.

“The President cannot do this alone—he needs your help. We need your help. Help us explain the BBL to your constituents, and light the torch of peace in your localities,” she added.

Deles also stressed the need for the cooperation of various sectors to ensure that peace in Mindanao prospers.

“Our peace journey has reached this far because so many people cared enough for it to prosper, and because given the enormous costs that war has brought to bear upon the people of Mindanao, we all know that failure is never an option,” she said.

 “It is important for our local leaders to be involved in public hearings and dialogues about the Bangsamoro. We want a law that would stand the test of time, and would bring our brothers and sisters closer together,” she said.