President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Urges Former Rebels-Turned-Policemen to Be Role Models for Peace in Mindanao
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered a powerful message on Monday, calling on former rebels who have now become policemen to serve as role models for their fellow Filipinos and contribute to the achievement of lasting peace in Mindanao. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Bangsamoro Police Basic Recruit Course (BPBRC) Batch 2023-01 Classes Alpha-Bravo in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, the President emphasized the importance of their transition from combatants to peacemakers.
A Transition from Armed Conflict to Peacebuilding
President Marcos Jr. acknowledged the significant transformation these former combatants have undergone. Once engaged in armed conflicts against government forces as members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), they now find themselves on the other side of the fence, actively contributing to the resolution of the armed conflict in Mindanao. This transition represents a remarkable shift towards peacebuilding and reconciliation.
Challenges and Responsibilities as Police Officers
The President commended the graduates for their bravery and determination throughout the intensive training program. He highlighted the challenges they will now face as they don the police uniform and serve the nation. President Marcos Jr. emphasized that their qualities and skills will be put to the test, and encouraged them to rise to the occasion. By embracing their new roles as police officers, they have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of the people they serve.
President Marcos Jr. also urged the new police graduates to continuously improve their capabilities. By striving for excellence and further enhancing their skills, they can ensure their effectiveness in serving the people and maintaining peace and order in Mindanao.
Bakas-Lipi: A Symbol of Unity
The newest batch of police graduates, known as “Bakas-Lipi,” consists of 52 members from the MILF and 50 from the MNLF, including eight women. This diverse group of individuals, who have set aside their past differences, now stand united in their commitment to peace and security.
Facilitating the Recruitment Process
To facilitate the recruitment of MNLF and MILF members into the police force of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, certain requirements such as age, height, and educational attainment have been waived. The National Police Commission has decreed that recruits from the MNLF and MILF will be temporarily appointed as patrolmen and patrolwomen.
By waiving these requirements, the government aims to provide opportunities for former rebels to reintegrate into society and contribute to the peacebuilding process. This inclusive approach recognizes the unique circumstances and backgrounds of these individuals, allowing them to play an active role in shaping a peaceful future for Mindanao.
Conclusion
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for former rebels-turned-policemen to be role models for peace in Mindanao is a testament to the government’s commitment to resolving the long-standing armed conflict in the region. By acknowledging the transformative journey these individuals have undertaken and encouraging them to continuously improve their skills, the President highlights the importance of their role in building lasting peace.
The graduation of the Bakas-Lipi batch symbolizes unity and reconciliation, as former adversaries come together to work towards a common goal. Through the facilitation of the recruitment process, the government aims to provide opportunities for former combatants to reintegrate into society and contribute to the peacebuilding efforts in Mindanao.
As these former rebels embrace their new roles as police officers, they have the power to inspire and make a positive impact on the lives of their fellow Filipinos. Their journey from armed conflict to peacebuilding serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter and more peaceful future in Mindanao.
Source: The Manila Times
