STATEMENT OF SEN. GUINGONA ON THE SIGNING
OF THE PEACE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT

I congratulate the government peace panel, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and the third party institutions for the historic signing of the framework agreement on peace aimed at ending the generations-old conflict in Mindanao. Peace is a fundamental and shared need of the Filipino people. I therefore laud the framework agreement's emphasis on inclusivity. It is clear that the final peace agreement that will be signed in the future will be the result of the work and aspirations of 15 members, all of whom are Bangsamoro. Eight of which will be selected by the MILF. I am confident that through this framework agreement, we will be able to address the signficant issues in Bangsamoro's fiscal autonomy, resource generation, and local government relations.

With the new political entity, I look forward to a political environment founded on shared principles and not on personalities.

As we begin to embrace the end of armed conflict, the entire nation must now face the great challenge and privilege of making Mindanao grow and progress as the country celebrates increasing development. With our Muslim brothers and sisters, I have faith that every Filipino will work hard to make the Bangsamoro a reality.