The fourth convergence meeting between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) is a testament to the enduring strength of this partnership. This collaboration is not just anchored on a historic peace agreement. It is a shared commitment to bringing greater peace, development, and progress in Mindanao.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has made it clear that ushering peace in Mindanao is a cornerstone of his administration's peace agenda. The MNLF, under the leadership of Chairmen Nur Misuari and Muslimin Sema, has responded to this clarion call. This alignment of goals is the driving force behind the continued transformation of the organization.

As lawyer Randolph Parcasio, head of the MNLF Peace Coordinating Committee’s Sub-Committee on Confidence Building, who spoke on behalf of Chairman Nur Misuari, aptly put it: The MNLF is a "natural ally" of President Marcos in empowering the Filipino people. This partnership is deeply rooted in a shared vision of a "Bagong Pilipinas," where peace and prosperity are not just aspirations but realities for all.

The MNLF's commitment to the President’s vision is ironclad. The Moro group has pledged its full support to the Marcos administration's peace agenda. It is now actively participating in the implementation of socio-economic initiatives under the MNLF Transformation Program that aims to uplift the lives of former combatants and their families

President Marcos Jr. has reiterated his commitment to honoring all signed Bangsamoro peace agreements. This is a process that was started during the term of his father, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. This is not just a promise; it is a strategic approach to strengthening trust and ensuring that the hard-won gains of peace are built upon.

The GPH-MNLF partnership is a perfect example of how mutual respect, cooperation and continuous dialogue can lead to genuine peace and sustainable progress. The recent convergence meeting underscored the importance of collaboration and synergy in addressing both current and emerging security challenges. 

Special Assistant to the President Secretary Antonio Ernesto F. Lagdameo Jr. hit the nail on the head when he underscored that the GPH-MNLF partnership “is our deep desire to build progressive and harmonious communities that will contribute to our greater goal of a prosperous, inclusive and peaceful nation.”

The path to peace has not been without its share of challenges. But the GPH and MNLF have shown over the past 28 years that these can be overcome through a greater sense of ownership and responsibility. The accelerated rollout of socioeconomic interventions, particularly in MNLF communities, signals a bright future for the Bangsamoro region and the rest of Mindanao.

This enduring partnership that has been forged between both parties is not only about ending decades of armed conflict. More than anything else, it is about creating a legacy of peace and progress. It is about ensuring that the dividends of peace are enjoyed not only by our MNLF brothers and sisters but by every Mindanaoan. 

The GPH-MNLF peace process is a shining example of how stakeholders should work together to create conditions where genuine peace and sustainable development can take root and flourish. It is a reminder to everyone that peace is not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, development, progress, and livelihood opportunities for all.

As we look ahead, it is clear that the MNLF's role in the peace process is pivotal. Their commitment to President Marcos Jr.'s vision of a "Bagong Pilipinas" is a powerful endorsement of the administration's efforts to create a better and brighter future for the MNLF, the Bangsamoro people, and all Filipinos. 
With the continued support of the MNLF to the President’s peace, reconciliation and unity agenda, our collective journey toward a just and lasting peace in Mindanao will not only continue but will also move forward at a more accelerated pace. It will bring us closer to the goal of a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Philippines.

(Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., is the presidential adviser on peace, reconciliation and unity.)