Duterte on Mindanao: Federalism instead of BBL

MANILA, Philippines — Presidential aspirant Davao City Mayor Rodrigo "Rody" Duterte on Monday afternoon expressed opposition on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and pushed for a federal system of government.

Duterte maintained that his presidency will be all federalism and said it is the solution to bring peace in Mindanao.

"Nothing short of a federal structure would give Mindanao peace," Duterte said.

In explaining why he is opposing the BBL, he cited that that he has witnessed violence in Mindanao.

Duterte stressed that injustice against the Muslims in Mindanao must be corrected.

"I have seen enough bloodshed to last a lifetime," Duterte said.

He also mentioned that he was one of the first to receive the copy of the draft of BBL, saying it was watered down from the original.

In his speech after being proclaimed the standard-bearer of PDP-Laban political party, Duterte said he has no ambition to run for president, but decided to do so when his political party’s leaders urged him to run and push for federalism.

"Kinausap ako to carry the torch of federalism," Duterte said.

He noted that federalism will be beneficial to all and even citizens' wealth will not be affected.

"If we build a federal [government], I will build a consensus, it will be beneficial for our country," Duterte said.