NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Switzerland Commits To Continued Support For BARMM
Photo credit: PCO
In a farewell call to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang, Swiss Ambassador to the Philippines Alain Gaschen expressed Switzerland's unwavering commitment to supporting the ongoing peace initiative in Mindanao.
This follows the Philippine government's successful peace pact with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which led to the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Ambassador Gaschen acknowledged the complex challenges that have plagued the region for decades, including land disputes, justice issues, and the need for reconciliation. He emphasized the importance of addressing these issues seriously and with the proper attention from Manila. Gaschen assured President Marcos that the Swiss government, through its various ministries, has a strong foundation to support the resolution of these pressing concerns.
In response, President Marcos expressed confidence in the commitment of all parties involved to make BARMM work. He highlighted the strong and longstanding relationship between the Philippines and Switzerland, expressing gratitude for Switzerland's instrumental role in chairing the Bangsamoro Transitional Council.
The President emphasized the significance of Switzerland's moral support and called for its continuation, along with that of other nations, in achieving peace and success in the region.
President Marcos acknowledged that the process of establishing BARMM is challenging, particularly in terms of developing the electoral code, local government code, and other basic laws related to the administrative structure. Despite the ongoing work, he assured everyone that the national government and the public are dedicated to ensuring the success and peace of BARMM. The President also expressed his willingness to hear the voices and perspectives of different individuals or factions to prevent resorting to violence.
During the call, Ambassador Gaschen commended the Marcos administration's focus on food security and energy sufficiency. He highlighted the Philippines' potential for a thriving agriculture sector, citing the cacao industry as an example where Switzerland initiated a project last year. Gaschen encouraged the Philippines to capitalize on its natural resources, adopt sustainable practices, and add value to its agricultural products.
Furthermore, Gaschen praised the increasing investment in green and renewable energy in the country. He emphasized that while it may take time, these efforts will ultimately reduce power costs and enhance the manufacturing and value chains. President Marcos stressed that energy security remains a high priority for the Philippines, urging the government to initiate energy projects promptly.
Ambassador Gaschen assumed his post as Ambassador-designate of the Swiss Confederation to the Philippines on August 4, 2019. His experience includes serving in various diplomatic missions of the Swiss Confederation in Beijing, Maputo, Bogotá, and Paris, as well as being the non-resident Ambassador to Palau, Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands.
The farewell call was attended by Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Maria Elena P. Algabre and Director Jose L. Garcia III of the DFA's Office of European Affairs. Accompanying Ambassador Gaschen was Thimon Fürst, the Deputy Head of Mission of the Swiss embassy.
This follows the Philippine government's successful peace pact with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which led to the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Ambassador Gaschen acknowledged the complex challenges that have plagued the region for decades, including land disputes, justice issues, and the need for reconciliation. He emphasized the importance of addressing these issues seriously and with the proper attention from Manila. Gaschen assured President Marcos that the Swiss government, through its various ministries, has a strong foundation to support the resolution of these pressing concerns.
In response, President Marcos expressed confidence in the commitment of all parties involved to make BARMM work. He highlighted the strong and longstanding relationship between the Philippines and Switzerland, expressing gratitude for Switzerland's instrumental role in chairing the Bangsamoro Transitional Council.
The President emphasized the significance of Switzerland's moral support and called for its continuation, along with that of other nations, in achieving peace and success in the region.
President Marcos acknowledged that the process of establishing BARMM is challenging, particularly in terms of developing the electoral code, local government code, and other basic laws related to the administrative structure. Despite the ongoing work, he assured everyone that the national government and the public are dedicated to ensuring the success and peace of BARMM. The President also expressed his willingness to hear the voices and perspectives of different individuals or factions to prevent resorting to violence.
During the call, Ambassador Gaschen commended the Marcos administration's focus on food security and energy sufficiency. He highlighted the Philippines' potential for a thriving agriculture sector, citing the cacao industry as an example where Switzerland initiated a project last year. Gaschen encouraged the Philippines to capitalize on its natural resources, adopt sustainable practices, and add value to its agricultural products.
Furthermore, Gaschen praised the increasing investment in green and renewable energy in the country. He emphasized that while it may take time, these efforts will ultimately reduce power costs and enhance the manufacturing and value chains. President Marcos stressed that energy security remains a high priority for the Philippines, urging the government to initiate energy projects promptly.
Ambassador Gaschen assumed his post as Ambassador-designate of the Swiss Confederation to the Philippines on August 4, 2019. His experience includes serving in various diplomatic missions of the Swiss Confederation in Beijing, Maputo, Bogotá, and Paris, as well as being the non-resident Ambassador to Palau, Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands.
The farewell call was attended by Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Maria Elena P. Algabre and Director Jose L. Garcia III of the DFA's Office of European Affairs. Accompanying Ambassador Gaschen was Thimon Fürst, the Deputy Head of Mission of the Swiss embassy.
Jun 22, 2023
