The forging of the peace pact between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) yesterday, March 27, was accompanied by high expectations lasting peace would finally be achieved in Muslim Mindanao and lead to economic growth in the resource rich but impoverished region.
Signing the agreement were government chief negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer and MILF peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal.
President Benigno Aquino III and MILF Chairman Al-haj Murad Abrahim witnessed the signing of the pact. Both expressed their support of the Bangsamoro vision where Filipino Muslims would have self-rule and control over their economy and culture.
Malaysian Prime Minister Mohammad Abdul Razak, whose country brokered the talks, was a guest during the event.
“After the conflict, the difficult work of development begins, Razak said. “With peace must come not just prosperity but also opportunity.”
Hopes are rife the peace deal will encourage both local and foreign investors to explore business opportunities in the region, known for its rich agricultural and natural resources.
In a statement, the Makati Business Club said: “With the country’s steadily improving business climate, the peace deal presents a golden opportunity for the Bangsamoro and Mindanao.”
On the other hand, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Alfredo Yao expressed confidence “the agreement would ensure peace and stability and open up many opportunities for investors particularly in agriculture, rubber palm oil, and oil exploration.”
Adapted from: “Gov’t, MILF ink peace deal,” by the Business World staff and Reuters
Photo: from databaseworldkigo.blogspot.com
