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More than a hundred leaders from the diplomatic, media, academic, government, non-government organization and foreign institution circles attended the launching of the book on the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) entitled “Beyond Paper Autonomy: The Challenge in Southern Philippines” at the Manila Hotel on September 1, 2004.

Chief Justice Hilario Davide commended the efforts of the author, Atty. Benedicto Bacani, Dean of the College of Law of Notre Dame University and Director of NDU’s Center for Autonomy and Governance and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation for coming up with such a timely and pertinent publication, a relevant aid for an effective legislation to address the peace and development issues in Mindanao.

The book brings together the views of stakeholders from the 12 roundtable discussions on ARMM issues sponsored by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. The book analyzes autonomy as a solution to the rebellion in Mindanao and makes recommendations on how to make the ARMM an effective vehicle to achieve peace and development in the region. Mr. Klaus Preschle, Country Representative of KAF, said that the publication of the book is an important part in the Foundation’s Mindanao program that seeks the empowerment of political institutions in Southern Philippines. Amina Rasul considered the book as a guide to leaders who dream of a strong foundation for democracy in Muslim Mindanao. While Hatimil Hassan, Speaker of the ARMM Legislative Assembly and MNLF Chairman said that the book contains the most comprehensive analysis to date of what ails the ARMM and the practical steps to be taken to make autonomy work.

First copies of the book were presented to Secretary Geles of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process and to ARMM Governor Parouk Hussin who was then represented by the ARMM Secretary General Jose Lorena.

For those interested to secure a copy of the book, please contact the KAF office at 894-3427.