Legarda: Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro Needs Closer Scrutiny, Extensive Consultations

SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA TODAY SAID THAT SHE WELCOMES THE DRAFT FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON THE BANGSAMORO AS THE FIRST OF MANY STEPS TOWARD THE ATTAINMENT OF LASTING PEACE IN MINDANAO AND STRESSED THAT THE AGREEMENT NEEDS CLOSER SCRUTINY AND MUST UNDERGO EXTENSIVE CONSULTATIONS.
“While the important details of this Agreement have yet to be formulated, the opportunities for continuing dialogue and the prospects for peace should be welcomed by all Filipinos,” she said.
“As a legislator, I will carefully study the Framework Agreement and its subsequent companion documents to determine how this Agreement conforms to the spirit and intent of our Constitution. There are provisions in the Framework Agreement that invite closer scrutiny and I trust that questions that may arise would be answered through a process of extensive consultations,” she explained.
Legarda noted that Congress still needs to enact a law in order to give life to the new political entity envisioned by the Framework Agreement.
“I look forward to the inputs of the relevant bodies that will be constituted to formulate a draft that is representative of the sentiments and wishes of the people,” she added.
“As a legislator, I will do my part in ensuring that the new legislation becomes an instrument by which we can finally achieve lasting and durable peace in Mindanao,” Legarda concluded.