Statement of Sen. Gordon on the passing of Ghdzali Jaafar, former MILF Vice Chairman

I am deeply saddened by the passing of my Muslim brother Ghadzali Jaafar, who is the speaker of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority and first vice chairman of the MILF. He would be a hard act to follow.

Jaafar's passing is a deep loss to our country. His sincerity, wisdom and experience are attributes needed to drive his andour dreams of a successful Mindanao. His leadership will be sorely missed. We all have to work as one now and continue what he has started.

We first met in August 2008, when he graciously received me as the first senator to set foot in Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat. A deep friendship was forged between us since, aided by the mutual respect that sprung from that first meeting. We would talk to each other about the Bangsamoro and the achievement of lasting peace in Mindanao.

When we saw each other last during their oath-taking for the BTA, I even pushed him in his wheelchair to his car after the event. Out of concern for his health, I invited him to my home in Subic and take a rest there.