Kabacan, North Cotabato - The Muslim Youth Religious Organization (MYRO)-University of Southern Mindanao Chapter conducted Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on Bangsamoro Organic Law in support to the ratification of R.A. 11054 or OLBARMM.
The event sponsored by MYRO Main Chapter headed by Engr. Mansory S. Abdulatif was held at the university campus on October 13, 2018 supported with donations from concerned professionals and benefactors.
Participants were composed of student leaders from University Student Government (USG), Local Student Government, society presidents, university publication writers, and staff.
The organizers aim to equip the student leaders deep understanding of Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) so that they become source of accurate information and effective tools in encouraging their fellow students to support the ratification of OLBARMM by casting the YES votes during the plebiscite on January 21st of 2019.
Furthermore, concerned organizations’ leaders can undertake massive campaign in support to the victory of the YES vote in the core territory, and other areas mentioned in the law.
In order for advocacy on BOL becomes effective, student leaders can make use of their School publications, radio program, and the social media to enhance public awareness on BOL.
As they strengthen their position on BOL, the student leaders shall “honor the past, treasure the present and shape the future by toeing the line of Bangsamoro leadership that aspires for better if not the best region in the country once the BOL is ratified during the plebiscite.
MYRO Chapter Adviser, Ustadz Abdulkadir Abdullah said young leaders must learn about the contents of BOL because it will shape the future of the next generations.
Abdullatif stressed to the newly inducted officers that their role as young leaders is very vital to the society. It may bring change that makes them better individuals, responsible and future leaders of the homeland.
R.A. 11054 or the Organic Law for Bangsamoro is designed for inclusive development of all sectors in the Bangsamoro so young leaders must involve themselves in the campaign for BOL ratification.
Ms. Khadiguia Ontak-Balah says, the event is conducted to sharpen the minds of the youth and mold them to become responsible individuals. It is the time for the youths to collaborate, and strengthen their acts so that they can become part of the new autonomous political entity called Bangsamoro.
Engr. Muhajirin Ali, Chief of Staff of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace Implementing Panel emphasized in his message the difference between the powers in the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and the upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Other provision highlighted in his message was on the participation of the youth in the Bangsamoro Parliament.
“The beauty of having automatic appropriation of Block Grant for the Bangsamoro, and other provisions that will ensure quality education, other social and economic opportunities will bring about better life for all,” Engr. Ali said.
The importance of participating in the referendum on January 21st is one way of ensuring the victory of the yes vote that can be considered as another milestone for the Moro people.
The journey of the Bangsamoro to achieve their right to self-determination was discussed by the another speaker.
Ms. Faydiyah Samanodi Akmad, a young peace advocate and a former President of MYRO-USM Chapter, Year 2014 spoke about the Bangsamoro History.
She encouraged the student leaders to understand where the journey of Moro struggle started from and how the organic law was achieved by Bangsamoro leaders?
“The assertion to right to self-determination by the Moro people is a continuing struggle even after the establishment of the Bangsamoro,” Akmad said.
Akmad ended her message by saying, “the BOL must be ratified by us, and gradually the historical injustices committed against the Bangsamoro can be addressed.