‘Yes’ to Bangsamoro self-rule

Thumbs up: Ebrahim Murad, chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, gesturing after casting his vote in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao province. — Reuters

MANILA: A predominantly Muslim area of the southern Philippines has returned a resounding “Yes” in this week’s referendum on greater autonomy, boosting hopes for peace in one of Asia’s most conflict-torn regions.

The plan to create a self-administered area for the Muslim-dominated parts of Mindanao was backed by 85% of voters, the election commission said late on Friday, paving the way for a three-year transition towards elections for a legislature that will choose an executive.