NEWS




12October

BARMM Chief Minister exhorts widows of war to protect autonomy, announces financial aid

Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim has urged the widows of war (WOW) to fiercely protect the autonomy achieved through the sacrifices of the Mujahideen, reminding them that it is a legacy built on decades of struggle and sacrifice.
Ebrahim made the call during a distribution of financial assistance to WOW beneficiaries held on September 28 at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex, Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City.

"Our autonomy is not just a political achievement; it is a legacy built on the sacrifices of every Bangsamoro who fought for our freedom," Ebrahim said, emphasizing that complacency is not an option. 

Ebrahim said, "We cannot afford to be complacent. This autonomy must be fiercely protected, for it is the foundation of the future we are building for our children and the generations to come."

Demonstrating the government's commitment to supporting those who have sacrificed for peace, Ebrahim announced a significant financial aid package, providing P50,000 to each of the 600 widows of war and P150,000 in seed capital to 33 cooperatives formed by former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

"This financial aid is not just a handout; it is a recognition of your courage and a symbol of the Bangsamoro government’s unwavering support for those who have sacrificed the most for our peace," he added.

The event was attended by various BARMM BARMM Chief Minister exhorts widows of war to protect autonomy, announces financial aid
officials, including the administrator of the Special Geographic Area Development Authority (SGADA), Butch Malang, who reaffirmed the government's dedication to supporting the most vulnerable, including the widows of war.

Minister of Science and Technology Aida Silongan commended the widows' critical role in securing Bangsamoro autonomy, stating, "Were it not for these brave women and the ultimate sacrifices of their husbands, sons, and brothers, the freedom we now have in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region would not exist."

Several widows shared their experiences and expressed gratitude for the assistance. 

Khadija, one of the widows, described the challenges of raising her family after her husband's death, but expressed hope that the assistance would help her rebuild her life. 

Sittie, another widow, expressed hope for her children's future, saying, "Losing my husband changed everything. But today, I see a future for my children. This help from the government gives us a chance to move forward."

Minister of the Interior and Local Government Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba said,
"The peace we have today is fragile, and it must be nurtured."

"Each of us has a role in safeguarding our autonomy and ensuring that no one is left behind as we build a progressive and empowered Bangsamoro," Dumama-Alba said.