BARMM GOVERNORS SHOOT DOWN DUTERTE’S ‘MINDANAO SECESSIONIST MOVEMENT,’ REAFFIRM SUPPORT FOR PBBM

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Reaffirming support for the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. and backing the “Bagong Pilipinas” program, the four governors from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) said the region is proud to assert its identity as an integral part of the Republic of the Philippines.

Governors Yshmael Sali of Tawi-Tawi, Hajiman Hatama-Salliman of Basilan, Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. of Lanao del Sur, and Abdulraof Macacua of Maguindanao del Norte also vowed to focus on regional development and peace, emphasizing unity and progress within the national framework.

“This is an impassioned collective call to our constituents and the entire nation, urging steadfastness and unity to achieve our shared aspirations. The Bangsamoro People are resolved not to regress but to forge ahead together as one indomitable force, proudly celebrating our Bangsamoro identity as an integral part of the Philippine Republic.” they said in a statement last Friday (February 2).

The stance of BARMM officials apparently belied Duterte’s latest antic last February 1 that local political forces in the South would be regrouping to start a movement for a “separate and independent Mindanao.”

Showing unity, the BARMM officials stressed that the Bangsamoro people are “resolved not to regress but to forge ahead together as one indomitable force.”

“We emphatically call upon everyone to maintain an unwavering focus and unity in safeguarding the hard-earned gains of peace, recognizing their indispensable role in driving economic development. Distractions are not an option, as the foundational elements for peace and prosperity are firmly established,” they added.

At the same time, the BARMM officials aired support for the “Bagong Pilipinas” program, describing it as a “testament” to Marcos Jr.’s commitment to ensuring that the government’s presence is felt throughout the country.

They further said that they are also committed to the full-scale development of their provinces and would pursue their vision of profound peace and prosperity in the region.

(el Amigo/MNM)