LHBK | iMINDSPH
Manila — The government and MILF Peace Implementing Panels convened on Saturday, February 10, in Manila for their 34th meeting.
The two (2) panels discussed and agreed upon the principles for implementing the socioeconomic development program for decommissioned combatants and the six (6) previously acknowledged MILF camps, as stated in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).
It was also agreed upon by both parties that all MILF members applying for amnesty will undergo a verification process. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front will submit the names of authorized individuals who will issue a certification of membership to the National Amnesty Commission. There will be a validation process to determine the certification's authenticity and the use of a device system to identify inactive members of the organization.
Both panels emphasized the importance of verifying membership to ensure the sanctity of the application process.
The GPH and MILF Peace Implementing Panels are united in ensuring the integrity of the Bangsamoro peace process. Contrary to allegations of corruption, particularly in the decommissioning process, the parties reassured the public that proper mechanisms and procedures were in place to guarantee accountability, trust, and confidence in the process.
The verification and validation conducted by the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB) before a firearm and MILF combatants undergo decommissioning were also highlighted as strict measures.
To ensure transparency, all programs under the normalization track, whether nationally funded or donor-assisted, will have proper documentation and monitoring.
However, discussions on the revitalization of the International Monitoring Team were deferred, taking into account the GPH's request to first conduct due diligence and consultations with its principals.
The two panels expressed their utmost gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. for his continuous support in implementing the peace agreement towards long-lasting peace and inclusive development in the Bangsamoro.
The peace panels also thanked OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr. and Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim, as well as their strong leadership in promoting the CAB, along with all National Government agencies and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA).
The government and MILF pledged to complete all deliverables under the peace agreement through cooperation and openness.
The newly agreed-upon terms were signed by Retired General CESAR YANO, Chair of the GPH Peace Implementing Panel, and MOHAGHER IQBAL, Chair of the MILF Peace Implementing Panel.
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