Nonviolent Peaceforce in the Philippines Statement on Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro Signing

A new era is dawning in the Philippines as the forty-year conflict in Mindanao, Philippines, between the

Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), reaches a turning

point; one that has the country directed toward sustainable peace.

Today, 27th March, 2014, the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) was officially signed

by both the GPH and MILF. The final signing of the CAB comes 17 months after it’s initiation in October

2012 and is the culmination of a peace process spanning 17 years. This milestone solidifies the

foundation for the Bangsamoro Sub-state, which will provide the region greater political and governing

autonomy. It will also preserve the vibrant history, tradition and culture of the Moro people. Moreover,

this epic achievement will bring an end to the decades of violence that have plagued

Mindanao. The MILF Peace Panel Chairman, Mohager Iqbal, specifically relayed to Atif Hameed,

Nonviolent Peaceforce Director of Programs, “The Final Signing of the CAB is a greatest hope for real

peace. Its collective achievement of a life time and Nonviolent Peaceforce is very much part of this

historical success.”

The peace process has been rife with challenges; three major wars and innumerable armed clashes

contributed to the derailment of peace talks on multiple occasions. The multitude of challenges that have

been overcome makes the achievement even grander. It also speaks to the unwavering dedication of

both parties in seeking sustainable solutions which are in the best interest of the country and the people

of Mindanao.

Both the GPH And MILF recognized the critical importance of establishing effective monitoring

mechanisms on the ground to address the ceasefire and civilian safety. This will thereby create the

necessary space for the Peace Panels to focus on resolution of the most salient and contentious issues in

the peace talks. The signing of the CAB is the demonstration that resolution on these issues has been

achieved.

Several steps remain before the Bangsamoro is a fully operational Sub-state, including drafting and

ratification of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. However, the foundation has been set and the future is bright.

The veteran civil society leader of Mindanao, Guimal Alim, who serves as Chairman of the Nonviolent

Peaceforce Philippines Advisory Council shared that, “This is an initial victory in the long Bangsamoro

struggle for self-determination. This political gain must be sustained to improve the socio-economic life of

the Bangsamoro. The role of organizations like Nonviolent Peaceforce and others is very crucial to this

end.”

Nonviolent Peaceforce has been in Mindanao, actively working to support the peace process since 2007.

Nonviolent Peaceforce was initially invited by local civil society to foster efforts in improving human

security. This was specifically related to civilian protection and human rights issues using proactive and

nonviolent methods. In 2010, Nonviolent Peaceforce had the privilege of joining the Civilian Protection

Component (CPC) of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) at the invitation of

the MILF and GPH Peace Panels. The IMT is the mechanism charged with monitoring the ceasefire and

overseeing humanitarian as well as human rights initiatives. As a member of the CPC, NP has focused on

protecting the safety and security of non-combatants throughout the peace process, as well as the

establishment of the Bangsamoro sub-state.

Nonviolent Peaceforce conveys its deepest respect and heartfelt congratulations to the parties, as well as

the people of Mindanao for their perseverance and strength of spirit. This is not only a resounding

triumph for Mindanao and the nation of the Philippines, but it is also a great model that can help many

other countries facing similar issues. This serves as a brilliant reminder that dialogue, negotiation and

dedication have the power to bring about real and lasting change. This is a real victory for peace.