AFP hopeful of deeper ties with Muslim Filipinos

FILE: Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, Jr. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

MANILA — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal expressed hope that the military would further strengthen its relations with the Muslim Filipino community in promoting lasting peace and in combating violent extremism.

“As we give reverence to the holy feast, we hope to further strengthen our relationship with the Muslim community as one Filipino nation in promoting lasting peace for our country and in fighting against violent extremism,” Madrigal said in a message forwarded to reporters Wednesday, as Muslims all over the world celebrated Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

He said the AFP is one with its Muslim Filipino brothers and sisters in the peaceful, joyous and festive celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

“In the spirit of unity, the whole AFP will remain supportive and committed in the just implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) which shall pave the way for a just and lasting peace and development in the South,” he added.

The BOL, which was ratified early this year, established the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

“Setting aside social, cultural and spiritual differences, we as Filipinos can make history by passing on a better and more prosperous Mindanao to the next generation,” the AFP chief added.

Madrigal said the AFP’s relationship with its Muslim brothers and sisters, which is built on trust and respect, will continue to bear fruit as the country starts its journey to peace.