In a video message, Dr. Rahib Kudto, UNYPAD President, conveyed the call of their organization for the extension of the term of Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA).

BTA is the interim regional government of the BARMM with legislative and executive powers whose mandate will expire on June 30, 2022.

Kudto said, “Everyone knows that the time allotted for the transition is limited. This has been made more challenging with the current Covid-19 Pandemic that complicates the implementation of all BARMM programs, projects and activities.”

He pointed out that the peace process between the Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front or MILF is not yet finished.

“A lot of agreements that are critical in sustaining the gains of the peace process have yet to be implemented,” he explained.

According to Kudto, the implementation of agreements will certainly require more time beyond 2022 so that both parties can bring the peace process to its proper conclusion.

BTA was established by RA 11054 or Bangsamoro Organic Law which is aimed at addressing the decades of conflict in Southern Philippines.