Australia welcomes breakthrough in Philippines peace process

Media release

27 January 2014

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop today congratulated the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on the signing of the final Annex on Normalisation under the October 2012 Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro. This signing paves the way for completion of an historic comprehensive peace agreement.

The Australian Government commends the strong commitment shown by both parties to the peace process, including President Benigno Aquino's leadership in prioritising peace negotiations.

Australia has provided support to the peace process through the aid program, including technical assistance to the Office of the Presidential Adviser to the Peace Process and funding to the World Bank and the United Nations to assist parties to finalise the Basic Law for the Bangsamoro. At the request of the Government of the Philippines, Australia has also provided an international expert for the Independent Commission on Policing, which will deliver recommendations on policing arrangements for the new Bangsamoro.

Australian support will continue, with funding of $6 million over the next 3 years committed through our aid program, to support the peace process and boost institutional capacity to implement the Peace Agreement.

Australia stands with the Philippines, and particularly with the people of the Southern Philippines, to realise this opportunity for a more secure and prosperous future after decades of conflict.