Cotabato City, Philippines, May 28— In a stirring and deeply human address before the Bangsamoro Parliament, Member of Parliament Abdulbasit R. Benito delivered a powerful message of solidarity with the Palestinian people, decrying the ongoing genocide in Gaza and calling for urgent international action to end the violence.
Speaking before Bangsamoro Parliament, MP Benito’s words resonated with profound emotion and a firm moral stance.
“Every passing day bears witness to unbearable tragedy,” Benito said. “Children are killed in their homes, in schools, and on the very streets where they once played. Families are shattered, and communities are reduced to rubble.”
Benito did not mince words, referring to the situation in Gaza as genocide, and called out the need for the global community to abandon its silence.
He aligned his statement with that of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who recently affirmed the Philippine government’s concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Quoting the President, Benito echoed:
“The Philippines is deeply concerned with the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. We urge all parties to respect international humanitarian law and to protect civilians. The killing of innocent lives must end.”
Benito described this stance as a reflection of the Filipino people’s enduring values — compassion, justice, and an unwavering commitment to peace.
The MP also took time to commend the League of Bangsamoro Organizations (LBO) for their tireless efforts in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and representing the Bangsamoro and Filipino peoples on the international stage. He praised their recent participation in a pro-Palestine conference in Indonesia as a symbol of their ongoing commitment to justice and human dignity.
“The LBO’s actions exemplify the role that civil society must play in advancing the cause of peace,” he said. “Their work — both humanitarian and diplomatic — continues to shine as a beacon of moral clarity in a time of darkness.”
Benito’s impassioned speech called for nothing less than an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. He urged that all parties uphold international law, protect civilians, and allow humanitarian aid to flow freely into the besieged region.
“The plight of the Palestinian people is not only a political issue; it is a test of our humanity,” he emphasized. “And history will judge us not by our intentions, but by our actions — or inaction — in the face of atrocity.”
He concluded with a message of hope and solidarity for the people of Gaza:
“To the children who still dream amid destruction — we offer our deepest solidarity. We see your pain, we hear your cries, and we join in your hope for a just and lasting peace.”
As the Bangsamoro Parliament continues its work, Benito’s voice adds to the growing chorus across the world demanding peace, justice, and accountability. His message is a reminder that even in a region long familiar with conflict, the spirit of compassion and solidarity remains strong — especially for those who suffer the most.