STATEMENT BY THE INDEPENDENT DECOMMISSIONING BODY ON THE LAUNCHING OF THE DECOMMISSIONING PHASE 3
Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao
08 November 2021
The Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB) lauds the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for moving forward with the Bangsamoro Peace Process with the commencement of the third phase of the decommissioning process of the MILF forces and weapons.
The commencement of the Phase 3 of the Decommissioning Process on 08 November 2021 at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao signifies the continuing implementation of the Normalization Program. Further, the start of the third phase of the decommissioning process while the world is also facing a pandemic demonstrates the steadfast commitment and perseverance of the parties in honoring the commitments made under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).
As we work towards lasting and inclusive peace in the Bangsamoro, IDB will ensure that the decommissioning process will be efficiently conducted with utmost impartiality, integrity, and confidentiality. This will be done in close coordination with other key normalization mechanisms as guided by the GPH and MILF Peace Implementing Panels.
The decommissioning of 35% of MILF combatants and weapons for this phase would result in the improvement of the lives of these combatants as they return to mainstream society as productive and peaceful citizens. IDB is privileged to be part of this meaningful journey and we look forward on continuously working to sustain the gains of the peace process towards a peaceful Bangsamoro community.
We underscore the continued dedication and commitment of the member countries of IDB – Governments of the Republic of Turkey, the Kingdom of Norway, and Brunei Darussalam, together with the representatives from the GPH and MILF, in facilitating the decommissioning as their roles are instrumental in this process. Furthermore, IDB acknowledges the valuable support and contributions of its local and international stakeholders to the decommissioning process including the financial contributions from the Governments of Germany, Australia, and Japan.
Amidst the challenges brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, IDB in close coordination with both parties and other key peace process stakeholders is looking forward to the successful conduct of the entire Phase 3 of the Decommissioning.
Ambassador, Ahmed Idem Akay, Chairman of the IDB said:
“As Chairman, on behalf of the members of the IDB, I would like to express our gratitude and appreciation for this honor to become a part of this journey. We would like to congratulate the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front for attaining yet another important chapter in the history of the peace process, not only in Mindanao, but to the entire Filipino nation and beyond.
The implementation of the third phase of decommissioning amidst the COVID-19 pandemic is a testament of the parties’ continuing sincerity and commitment to attain just and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro.
The decommissioning of the 35% of MILF combatants and weapons for this phase entails the transition of combatants to return to society as productive and peaceful citizens. Along with other normalization mechanisms, the IDB has been preparing and establishing necessary methodologies to ensure that the decommissioning process is efficiently conducted with utmost professionalism, integrity, and full adherence to confidentiality.”
In closing, Ambassador Akay emhasized:
“Finally, the we would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front for the trust and confidence extended to us to oversee this decommissioning process. And as we move towards another chapter of the Bangsamoro peace process, we would like to reiterate that we in the IDB is definitely ready.”
Below are the highlights of the event in photos:
