MANILA,Philippines — The European Union (EU) on Friday said it would train Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members on governance to support the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“Starting this summer, 41 middle executives from the MILF will be trained on public policy, governance, and management by the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies, and the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute,” the EU said in a statement.
EU said the training is meant to “extend support to effect a smooth and stable transition” to BARMM.
They will also provide technical support, including a seven-day study tour to countries where peace processes have been allowed for revolutionary organizations to transition to political organizations.
The Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies, Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute, and the MILF Peace Implementing Panel will help align the design, content, and timeline of the activities in the training program.
EU Ambassador Franz Jessen said the upcoming transition is critical, but it will present an opportunity to work in a harmonious spirit and create a solid foundation for political, economic and social stability in Mindanao.
“While there will be challenges along the way, there is so much hope and dynamism in the Bangsamoro region. This is extremely important because any peace process cannot be successful, if not supported by economic success, growing prosperity, and inclusive growth,” Jessen said.
MILF Chairperson Al-Hajj Murad Ebrahim, who is now the Interim Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, expressed support for the initiative.
“Together we can make peace. Together nothing is impossible when there is peace,” he said.
Last January, the organic law creating BARMM was ratified in a plebiscite. The ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) is considered a crucial factor in building peace in Muslim Mindanao. /ee
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