The Philippines has come a long way in its quest for lasting peace, President Marcos said, citing that no guerilla fronts remain active in the country today.
"We have come a long way in our quest for a lasting and inclusive peace," he said in his 82-minute State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 22.
"No guerilla fronts remain active across our country today. Only seven weakened groups remain to be dismantled, and they are the subject of focused operations," he added.
The President emphasized that the country has "rebuilt not only lives, but also conflict-affected communities" through its "comprehensive and transformative approach" on insurgency.
He also reported to the people that the implementation of peace agreements "is now in its concluding phase."
"Former combatants now live peaceful and productive lives in their respective communities. Some of our former rebels are now absorbed into the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), serving in the defense of the Republic; while others are now part of the PNP BARMM (Philippine National Police-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao)," Marcos said, citing the signing of proclamations granting amnesty to former rebels in November last year.
The Chief Executive also commended the Bangsamoro for being able to make improvements in a short period of time.
"In such a short period, the BARMM has impressively established the strong foundation for its progressive autonomous social development," he said.
Investments in the region increased by 140 percent year-on-year, he noted, adding that the region's poverty index has significantly decreased since 2018.
Marcos likewise highlighted that all seven inter-governmental mechanisms of the BARMM, as mandated under the Organic Law, have been organized and activated.
"Five out of the seven essential laws for the BARMM have already been enacted by the BTA Parliament. Now, it has its own Administrative Code, it has its own Local Government Code, its own Election Code, and those for Education and the Civil Service as well," he said.
"So with these inspiring developments, the BARMM appears primed and ready for its regular elections, the first ones that they will have in the coming year," he added.