MILF calls for BBL passage

MANILA, Philippines - The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Monday renewed its call for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) even as it warned that Moros could “go berserk out of frustration” if critics of the measure succeed.

In an editorial posted on its website luwaran.com, the MILF said efforts to derail the passage of the measure should be handled to avoid complications.

“The resolution of the armed conflict in Mindanao warrants more urgency. The proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law should be passed now,” the editorial read.

“Those spoiling the process and filibustering the deliberation of the proposed law in both Houses of Congress should be handled. They are not doing any good to this country,” it added.

The MILF said the resolution of the armed conflict warrants “more urgency” as the government faces issues that require public support like the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) dispute.

“One indisputable drawback is the lack of solid front to be put up by the government. It is natural that those still considering the government as their ‘enemy’ will have hard time fully supporting the government” the group said.

The MILF stressed that the BBL is not a “prescription for the dismemberment of this country” but a “menu for the unity and solidarity of this country. Opponents of the BBL “allowed themselves to be prisoners of their own hatred, fears, (and) prejudice against the Moros,” the group claimed.

“If they (BBL critics) are allowed to proceed, they will ruin this country and forced the Moros to go berserk out of frustration,” the MILF said.

“When a people is deprived of human dignity, of fair deal and accommodation, and are persecuted and oppressed, they will resort to extreme measures, either as a weapon of survival or as means of revenge.”

The BBL, a priority measure of the Aquino administration, seeks to create a Bangsamoro political entity with enhanced autonomy.

Opponents of the BBL believe that the measure violates the constitution. They questioned the inclusion of areas that do not want to be part of the new Bangsamoro entity as well as the extent of the Bangsamoro government’s taxing powers.

The Aquino administration, however, is confident that the BBL will pass legal scrutiny.

Congress adjourned sessions last month without passing the BBL but lawmakers claim that they still have time to deliberate on the measure before the Christmas break. – Alexis Romero with Levi Mora