As the bicameral conference on the Bangsamoro Basic Law was developing in Manila, a synchronized and solidarity lighting event mirroring the sentiments of the Bangsamoro representatives occurred last July 11, Wednesday at Freedom Park, Roxas Avenue.

The event, Kongreso sa Katawhan, was organized by All-Out Peace.

All-Out Peace (AOP) is a network and convergence of various peace and civil society organizations based in Mindanao and Manila.

From a press release by Initiatives for International Dialogue (IDD), one of the peace and civil society organizations under AOP, the event was said to consist of a people’s congress that mirrors the bicameral conference.

The representatives from different communities and sectors will pass their own version of a basic law that is hinged on the values of truth and justice

In an open letter last July 10, AOP declared the BBL to be the key to a peaceful Mindanao.

“AOP believes that the BBL, if enacted according to its intent and purpose, would finally unlock a smooth sailing peace process and social progress in the south.”

Furthermore, the open letter stated what could have possibly triggered the organization of this event.

“However, Your Honors, we are concerned with the unfortunate outcome of the recent deliberation of the House of Representatives and the Senate of the Philippines on the BBL (HB No. 6475 and SB No. 1717).”

“We are seriously worried of the ‘possible enactment of a watered-down BBL’ that will not fully realize the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people and other inhabitants of Mindanao. For us, a diluted BBL could trigger more problems than provide solutions to the Bangsamoro question,” part of the letter declared.

Similar synchronized advocacy actions were held in Iligan City, Cagayan de Oro City, and Cotabato City.