Lanao leaders asked to protect plebiscite

MANILA, Philippines — Local leaders of Lanao del Norte have been asked to protect the integrity of the plebiscite on Feb. 6 for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

The plebiscite seeks to include the province‘s six towns – Balo-i, Munai, Tangkal, Nunungan, Tagoloan and Pantar – in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. issued the appeal to mayors and barangay leaders during the conduct of a BOL information drive in Iligan City over the weekend.

 “Our commitment for a peaceful and orderly plebiscite demonstrates our pledge to uphold our democratic ideals and provide equal opportunities to freely cast our votes despite differences in opinion,” Galvez said.

The BOL is being seen as a viable instrument to institute a lasting peace in the Bangsamoro region, which according to Galvez has been marred by political alienation and economic marginalization.

“The BOL presents a pragmatic solution that will addresses extremist violence in the Bangsamoro,”  he said as he asked everyone to remain vigilant and observant in protecting the integrity of the votes.

Galvez expressed hope that the votes would truly reflect the people’s sentiment for peace and development in the region.

Aside from Lanao del Norte, the plebiscite on Wednesday will also be conducted in North Cotabato, where six of its  towns – Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit and Pigkawayan – and 28 villages have been identified for inclusion in the BARMM.

Galvez said the inclusion of these areas “does not divide the province, but widens and democratizes opportunities for economic development and political empowerment.”

The Philippine National Police deployed 3,300 personnel while the Armed Forces of the Philippines will send 10,000 soldiers to help secure the plebiscite. – With Lino dela Cruz