Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao administration building, Cotabato City (File photo)
MANILA – A ranking member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament praised President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the issuance of Proclamation No. 406 granting amnesty to Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members who wish to return to the fold of the law as “it serves as a vehicle to ever-lasting unity, peace and reconciliation."
"Our heartfelt commendation to President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. for his crucial and inspiring proclamation granting amnesty to members of the MNLF. This bold move showcases his commitment towards unity, peace, and reconciliation," Deputy Speaker Abdulkarim Misuari said in a statement on Monday.
"Extending amnesty to the members of the MNLF by issuing Proclamation No. 406, dated Nov. 22, 2023, President Marcos Jr. has displayed his genuine desire to heal the wounds of the past and foster brotherhood,” he added.
Misuari said the granting of amnesty "serves as a significant step towards national unity, and promotes a peaceful and a more inclusive nation."
And by choosing amnesty, Misuari said the President showcases his sincerity and foresight, recognizing that dialogue and negotiation are keys to resolving conflicts with those who once stood against the government.
"This decision not only supports the reintegration of MNLF members into society but also allows them to contribute to nation-building," he said.
President Marcos issued the said proclamation to MNLF members who have committed offenses punishable under the Revised Penal Code and special penal laws, among others, in furtherance of their political beliefs.
The President cited that granting (of) amnesty to MNLF members will create a climate conducive for peace and reconciliation, pave the way for them to reintegrate into the society, and provide them access to government’s socio-economic services.
The Chief Executive also cited the urgent need to extend amnesty to MNLF members as an instrument of reconciliation and as a path for their return to a peaceful, democratic, and pluralistic society.
“The grant of amnesty in favor of the foregoing group and individuals will promote an atmosphere conducive to the attainment of a just, comprehensive, and enduring equanimity and is in line with the government’s call for peace, unity, and reconciliation to bring closure to past enmity, rancor, and bitterness that has stymied lasting amity among the Filipino people,” he said. (PNA)
