Singapore president lauds Bangsamoro peace deal

MANILA, Philippines - Singaporean President Tony Tan Keng Yam on Thursday praised the country for the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), which is expected to pave the way for long-lasting peace in Mindanao.

"This is a momentous accomplishment and a testament to the leadership and efforts of President Aquino and his administration in brokering peace and stability for the Philippines and the region," President Tan said in his speech in Malacañang.

The peace panels of the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front finally signed the CAB last March 27.

Tan, who is in Manila for a state visit, met earlier with President Benigno Aquino III to discuss trade, defense and other issues concerning Singapore and the Philippines.

In a joint statement, Aquino said the two countries will strengthen their cooperation in the areas of defense and security.

"President Tan and I also discussed our countries’ defense and security cooperation, which includes high-level training, educational, and intelligence exchanges," Aquino said.

Read: Philippines, Singapore boost defense cooperation

The Singaporean leader also expressed his sympathy to the Philippines for the deaths and destruction caused by Super typhoon "Yolanda" last year.

"We are heartened that the spirit and resilience of the Philippine people remain strong in such devastation. We have been working with the Philippine government and stakeholders in the rehabilitation efforts," Tan said.

President Aquino, in turn, thanked his counterpart for Singapore's help in the aftermath of the disaster. - Louis Bacani