EVEN in great wars, opposing parties take a pause for a dialog to give peace a chance. The possibility of settling disputes is far when communication lines are closed. It’s always important to have a channel where talks could be accommodated.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is very much aware of this. It’s not surprising why he called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to continue its dialogs with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

Keeping the lines of communication with the Muslim rebel groups open plays a crucial role in the national effort to address root causes of violence.

In his speech before the 6th Infantry Division at the Camp Siongco in Cotabato recently, President Marcos reminded the military to always recognize the relationship between security, development and governance towards inclusive nation-building.

In collaboration with local communities and government agencies, “we work together to address the root causes of violence, which can often be attributed to the absence of opportunities in the area,” the President said.

“So, in our role as peacekeepers now, we must always embrace the role of community and nation-building,” he added.

The Chief Executive continues: “By engaging dialogue with key stakeholders, we build resilient communities that are capable of withstanding the challenges that may come our way. I, thus, urge you to continue working hand-in-hand with the communities, including MILF and MNLF-affiliated groups, through their leaders and through our local chief executives.

President Marcos believes the Filipino people, as a whole, can overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of peace and progress by forging partnerships rooted on mutual respect and understanding.

It’s true that everyone can create a future where every Filipino thrives and succeeds, regardless of background or circumstances, especially if the military can help ensure success will be visible and felt by the Filipino people.

Addressing the brave Filipino troops, the President said their role has become even more crucial as the nation moves forward into the future.

President Marcos also led the awarding of Distinguished Conduct Star (DCS) to two soldiers and Gold Cross Medal (GCM) to three soldiers, who showed commendable heroism in an encounter with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters-Karialan Faction (BIFF-KF).

The soldiers helped neutralized Mohiden Alimodin Animbang, a ranking leader of the BIFF-KF and 11 of his men in Barangay Kitango, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur.

Earlier, President Marcos visited soldiers of the Philippine Army (PA) who were wounded in action and handed over Special Financial Assistance worth P100,000to each of them.

Meanwhile, the President is confident the 6th Infantry Division (ID) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines can successfully secure peace and order for the May 2025 Bangsamoro parliamentary elections.

The upcoming first BARMM parliamentary elections in May 2025 will represent a milestone in the country’s journey towards a meaningful autonomy and a peaceful Bangsamoro, according to him.

The chief executive hopes the soldiers will be inspired by the awards and recognition they received to fulfill their calling and perform their mandates more courageously and wholeheartedly.

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