Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim and Interior and Local Government Minister Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, along with other officials, lead the ceremonial handover of financial assistance to widows of war at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex, Bangsamoro Government Center, in Cotabato City, on Sept. 28, 2024. (Photo courtesy of MILG)
COTABATO CITY—BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim addressed before the widows of war (WOW) to protect the autonomy achieved as a fruit of decades-long struggles and sacrifices of Mujahideen.
This came following the distribution of financial assistance to WOW beneficiaries held on Sept. 28, at Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex, Bangsamoro Government Center in this city.
“Our autonomy is not just a political achievement; it is a legacy built on the sacrifices of every Bangsamoro who fought for our freedom,” Ebrahim said.
He stressed that complacency is not an option. “We cannot afford to be complacent. This autonomy must be fiercely protected, for it is the foundation of the future we are building for our children and the generations to come.”
During the event, Ebrahim also announced substantial financial aid, giving P50,000 to each of the 600 widows of war and P150,000 in seed capital to 33 cooperatives formed by former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
“This financial aid is not just a handout; it is a recognition of your courage and a symbol of the Bangsamoro government’s unwavering support for those who have sacrificed the most for our peace,” he added.
The administrator of the Special Geographic Area Development Authority (SGADA), Butch Malang, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting the most vulnerable, including the widows of war.
“This event is about acknowledging their struggles and providing the support needed to help them rebuild their lives,” Malang said,
Minister of Science and Technology, Engr. Aida Silongan, commended the widows’ critical role in securing Bangsamoro autonomy.
“Were it not for these brave women and the ultimate sacrifices of their husbands, sons, and brothers, the freedom we now have in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region would not exist,” Silongan stated.
Khadija, one of the widows, shared her hardships raising her family after her husband’s death.
“My husband gave his life for our people’s freedom. It hasn’t been easy raising my children alone, but today, I feel like we are not forgotten. This assistance gives me hope that we can rebuild our lives,” she said.
Sittie, another widow, expressed hope for her children’s future: “Losing my husband changed everything. But today, I see a future for my children. This help from the government gives us a chance to move forward.”
Meanwhile, Minister of the Interior and Local Government, Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, reminded everyone of the fragility of peace and the collective responsibility to protect it.
“The peace we have today is fragile, and it must be nurtured. Each of us has a role in safeguarding our autonomy and ensuring that no one is left behind as we build a progressive and empowered Bangsamoro.”Atty. Dumama-Alba said.
Her message reinforced that the Bangsamoro people must remain vigilant in pursuing unity and development. (Majid Nur/BIO with reports from MILG)
