By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has filed a bill seeking to establish the Basulta Autonomous Region, composed of the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi (Basulta).
This follows the region’s exclusion from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“To promote political stability and economic development in the Sulu Archipelago, this bill aims to create an effective political entity and provide for its basic structure of government, recognizing the aspirations of the people of Sulu, as well as those of Basilan and Tawi-Tawi,” the bill states.
Padilla explained that the bill aims to address the unique needs of the island provinces, particularly in the delivery of basic services.
It also seeks to foster meaningful governance and sustainable development, respecting the region’s culture, traditions, and diversity.
Earlier, the Supreme Court declared Sulu’s exclusion from BARMM after voters in the province rejected the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law.
Under the proposed measure, the new autonomous region will include cities and provinces that vote in favor of its organic act in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
The national government will ensure that the autonomous region receives a fair and equitable share of the annual national budget and foreign-assisted projects.
ia/mnm
