Japan reaffirms 30-year support for Mindanao peace process after BARMM polls
Japan has reaffirmed its long-standing support for the Mindanao peace process following the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. The Japanese government commended the peaceful conduct of the polls and pledged continued assistance for the region's transition.
Why it matters
This highlights Japan's significant role as a key international partner in stabilizing the Philippines' historically conflict-prone Mindanao region.
Japan has reaffirmed its more than three decades of support for the Mindanao peace process, saying the first Bangsamoro parliamentary elections marked a historic step toward formally establishing the Bangsamoro Autonomous Government.
In a statement issued Friday, Sept. 18, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu said Japan hoped the Sept. 14 elections would lead to “peaceful and steady progress” in the long-standing transition toward an elected Bangsamoro government.
“Japan sincerely commends the efforts of all parties concerned, such as the Commission on Elections (Comelec), which made efforts in the conduct of this election,” Motegi said.
“Japan also reiterates its respect for years of tireless efforts by officials of the Government of the Philippines and those involved in BARMM, including the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), to make steady progress on the Mindanao peace process,” he added.
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