By Myrna S. Tepadan

COTABATO CITY – Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim welcomed Philippine Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo on Wednesday, March 16, as she paid a courtesy visit to the regional government’s seat here.

Ebrahim was joined by Senior Minister Abdulraof Macacua, Interior and Local Government Minister Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal, Public Works Minister Archt. Eduard Guerra, Social Services and Development Minister Atty. Raissa Jajurie, Bangsamoro Attorney General Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, and Cabinet Secretary Mohd Asnin Pendatun.

“We are grateful that you are the men and the women at the helm of the BARMM administration,” Robredo told the Cabinet officials.

Talking about the peace process, Robredo said, “I know this is a continuing struggle, but what you have achieved so far is the most difficult already.”

“Everyone who has been yearning for this [peace] are in very good hands,” she added.

On the other hand, Chief Minister Ebrahim said that for more than two years since BARMM’s establishment, “we have achieved so much already in fulfilling our priorities during this transition period but admittedly we still have a lot to do.”

“The other aspect of the Bangsamoro peace process, the normalization process also needs to catch up to ensure the smooth transition of our fighters from combatants to civilian and productive members of our society,” he added.

Ebrahim further said that it is very crucial for the Bangsamoro Government to engage with like-minded leaders that have the political will to continue the implementation of the peace process.

“And together, we will continue to walk the path of peace and progress not only in the

Bangsamoro, in Mindanao, but the entire country,” he said.

Should she be given the chance to lead the country, Robredo assured that all government’s help will be at BARMM’s disposal.

“Kaisa niyo kami sa paghangad na makamtan hindi lang yung peace na inaasam pero yung justice, yung justice na matagal nang kinakailangang makamtan because I do believe that it’s only when justice is served na peace will prevail,” Robredo said. (BANGSAMORO INFORMATION OFFICE)

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Bangsamoro Chief Minister Alhaj Murad Ebrahim and Vice President and Presidential Candidate Leni Robredo. (BIO photo)