P-Noy takes offense at anti-BBL generals

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino lamented yesterday the full-page advertisement of retired generals who, in a manifesto, made public their opposition to the administration-backed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) bill.

“It’s an open letter. I have known some people there since EDSA. Why didn’t they talk to me? Isn’t it worthwhile to talk? I’m open to them. I hope they are open to me, too,” he told reporters in Filipino.

The ad-manifesto, which came out in The STAR, was signed by 31 retired generals in the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and other uniformed services to express opposition to the BBL.

Among the signatories were retired Lt. Gen. Edelberto Adan, chairman and president of the Association of General and Flag Officers (AGFO); former AFP chief and defense secretary Renato de Villa; Generals Generoso Senga, Alexander Yano,  Dionisio Santiago, Emiliano Templo, Efren Abu and Rodrigo Gutang.

“I wish they would just follow the advice of those younger than they are. I wish they thought of the advertisement’s effect on society,” the 55-year-old AFP commander-in-chief said.

He said despite the tight legislative timeline, he remained confident that Congress would pass the BBL.

In an interview in Iloilo City where he inaugurated the P700-million Iloilo Convention Center, Aquino said it is not enough that people oppose peace agreements such as the BBL. They should also give the government a chance to solve the problem in Mindanao, he added.

“It would be better if we would have a dialogue that is open to the public so we would see if there’s a basis for their position,” he said. He urged everyone to join in the dialogue.

Should a dialogue among them push through, Aquino said he has questions in mind.