Swiss Embassy lauds ratification of BOL, condemns Jolo bombings

The Embassy of Switzerland in Manila on Monday lauded the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) and said that the successful plebiscite stood out as "a historic moment" aimed at ending decades of historical divide and injustices in the region.

“This historical vote is a powerful signal for peace and strongly fuels hope for a peaceful, just and more prosperous future. We commend the great efforts and the men and women determined to overcome the many obstacles,” Swiss ambassador to the Philippines Andrea Reichlin said in a statement.

It also recognized that the Bangsamoro region to be established will have to face some challenges including the decommissioning of former combatants and their reintegration to the community.

The BOL was deemed ratified by the Commission on Elections on Friday after the "yes" votes dominated the ballots.

Further, the Embassy of Switzerland denounced the recent twin explosions at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo, Sulu on Sunday morning, which claimed at least 20 lives and injured dozens of others.

"The Embassy strongly condemns this attack and expresses its deepest condolences and sympathies to the victims' families and friends," it said.

The majority of voters in Sulu did not support the ratification of BOL. Authorities, however, have not yet established definite links between the bombing and the plebiscite results.

The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, but the military is eyeing the Abu Sayyaf subgroup Ajang-Ajang as possibly having a hand in the bombing incident. — Dona Magsino/BM, GMA News