PNoy: BBL will end generations of violence

PILAR, Bataan – President Benigno Aquino III has called for the passage of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) during yesterday’s 73rd Araw ng Kagitingan rites here, and challenged the country in pursuing peace to halt generations of violence.

In front of war veterans and their families at the Dambana ng Kagitingan, Aquino said a repeat of the atrocities in World War II must not take place ever again because conflict will only lead to more suffering and misunderstanding.

“This is the same lesson that leads us to champion lasting peace in Mindanao, and to call for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law,” he said.

Aquino said so much damage was wrought by the devastating war in 1942, killing more than a million Filipinos which the country must not let happen again in modern times.

“The entire world stood in solidarity: Never again should such a tragedy take place; no one wins in a war,” Aquino said.

With the passage of the BBL, the President expressed confidence in a stable Mindanao that will open a scope of opportunities for the locals, and end two generations of torment in the south which has a vast potential for growth.

This will lead, he added, to a region of peace that no one will be driven to join radical factions, terrorist groups and organizations pursuing selfish agendas.

“Now that we are here, we will not allow succeeding generations to suffer the same fate. However hard our task may be, whatever challenges we may face, we will continue to pursue peace, because this is the way to obtain justice for all,” Aquino said.

The President also challenged the country that despite its differences, the Filipino people must tread a single direction to face the biggest of trials including the spread of fear and violence by terrorists.

Lack of understanding, Aquino said, will claim more lives in chaos and more livelihoods and opportunities wasted.

“Let me emphasize: This generation has the responsibility of maintaining peace, and of continuing the pursuit of widespread prosperity,” he said.

The President led yesterday’s rites for the 73rd Araw ng Kagitingan in Mt. Samat Shrine and met the aging war veterans and their families.