President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday swore in the newly appointed members of the Parliament in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and reminded them of their duty to protect the gains of the peace process to ensure lasting peace in the region.

“With you at the helm, I am confident that you will continue to prove that the implementation of every single signed agreement—is a step towards long-lasting peace,” President Marcos said during the event in Malacañang.

“We have collectively achieved remarkable progress in the Bangsamoro peace process. It is our shared responsibility to protect these gains and to ensure their uninterrupted advancement,” the President said.

He said that the new Bangsamoro Parliament members will continue the aspirations of those who have longed for peace and self-governance.

He added that they will also be instrumental in creating a future built by and for the Bangsamoro people.

With their names on the line, President Marcos reminded the Bangsamoro Parliament officials they must ensure a just and progressive Bangsamoro region.

Despite the different faiths and histories that shaped the nation, the President said he expects diversity and difference to not hinder national solidarity.

“Let us remember that at the center of our national identity is a common thread that binds us: our longing for peace and for progress,” he said.

In performing their duties, government officials must embody the traits of a new Filipino: discipline, expertise, and love of country.

The president, Quoting Prophet Muhammad regarding public service, said the true essence of public service is serving Filipinos “with integrity and kindness.”

During its transition period, the Bangsamoro Parliament is the interim government in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Its term was established in 2019 following the ratification of Republic Act 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law. | PND