Bangsamoro Law Hopes for Peace in the South

摘要

Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte unveiled a law on Aug 6 that grants greater autonomy to Muslims in the southern region of the country and expressed hope that the agreement will bring an end to one of Asia's longest-running separatist conflicts. "I hope the law will finally end the decades-old conflict that is rooted in the Bangsamoro's fight for self-determination and the recognition of their unique identity," Duterte said during his remarks at the unveiling ceremony. "May this serve as the final trajectory for the attainment of genuine peace, stability and good governance in Muslim Mindanao," he added. "Let us work together as we continue the healing and reconciliation process." He later presented a copy of the law to Al Hajj Murad Ebrahim, chairman of the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).