Aust welcomes progress on Moro deal

Australia has commended the Philippines government for its progress in finalising a peace agreement to end a long-running conflict with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) insurgents.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said signing of the final annex under the October 2012 Framework Agreement paved the way for completion of an historic comprehensive peace agreement on the Moro people, known as the Bangsamoro.

Ms Bishop said Australia had supported the peace process through the aid program.

"Australia stands with the Philippines and particularly with the people of the Southern Philippines to realise this opportunity for a more secure and prosperous future after decades of conflict," she said in a statement.

Ms Bishop said the government would continue this support, providing $6 million over the next three years to support the peace process and boost institutional capacity.