READ | Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim delivered the first ever State of the Bangsamoro Address during the opening ceremony of the BTA Parliament’s Third Regular Session today, 5 Dhuʻl-Qiʻdah 1442 (15 June 2021) via Zoom.
The Chief Minister reported to the Parliament the recent updates of the BTA’s collective work as the interim regional government.
He mentioned the activities of the BTA – the Peace and Security Summit, Marawi Rehabilitation Program, Partnership with the LGUs, Vaccination Programs, among others.
He congratulated the Parliament for passing the Education Code which paved the way for a religious and secular balance, and adheres to the longstanding culture, traditions, and history of the Bangsamoro People.
“It also provides recognition that is long overdue for our asatidz and their significant role in molding the Bangsamoro students,” he said.
The Chief of the Bangsamoro made a call to the Members of Parliament to pass important legislations, on top of those are the remaining Codes.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we are a diverse group of people here in the Bangsamoro region united by the common aspirations to address the historical injustices, put an end to the various forms of violence, and bring genuine peace and development through our right to self-determination. This cannot be done overnight but what we can do now is build the structures of governance and pass legislation that will enable our children to live better in a Bangsamoro region we can all be proud of,” he said.
“I trust the collective wisdom of this parliament as we likewise prioritize laws for certain sectors of our society. We shall work on the legislation that will protect and promote the rights of the Indigenous People pursuant to the intent of the Bangsamoro Organic Law. I tasked the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs to work hard and lead this priority,” he further said.
There were security threats recently in some parts of Maguindanao that may spoil peace in the Region.
“We are fully aware that there are few people trying to capitalize from this situation to advance their selfish interest. The Bangsamoro has gone through so much pain and suffering already, and we will continue to do all means necessary not to succumb to the threats imposed by a few. Let us all move forward to the path of peace,” he said.
Chief Minister Ebrahim also mentioned that the Bangsamoro Region is gearing towards Islamic Financing.
“Islamic Finance is gaining grounds in the world. Some experts even say that this is the future of finance and banking. We in the Bangsamoro must ensure that we make this potential a reality in our region alongside with the promotion of Halal industry. As such, a comprehensive framework for the Promotion and Development of Islamic Finance and a Halal Economy in the BARMM shall likewise be prioritized in the succeeding months,” he said.
Before he ended his speech, he reassured that President and the leadership of the Senate, and the House of Representatives have given the nod that the BTA extension will happen.
He reminded that the BARMM is not just the legacy of the MILF or of the Duterte Administration, but a legacy of this generation and a gift to the next generations of the Bangsamoro, the current leadership cannot fail, and the Bangsamoro story shall continue and we are the authors of its most crucial chapters.
“We must do everything for the sake of the Bangsamoro and submit to the will and plan of Allah. After all, as mentioned in Surat Al-‘Anfāl of the Holy Quran 8:30, Allah is the best planner,” he emphasized.
He also shared a verse from the Holy Qur’an:
And [remember, O Muḥammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allāh plans. And Allāh is the best of planners.
“With all these being said, I hope that we continue serving our people with passion, sincere intentions, and in remembrance of those who sacrificed for all of us — The Bangsamoro story shall continue and we are the authors of its most crucial chapters — Thank you so much to everyone and Wasalamu Alaykum Wa Rahmahtullahi Taala Wa Barakatuh —Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar!!!”, as Chief Minister Ebrahim ended his speech.
Source: MILF chairman Official
