MILF concerned over delay in Bangsamoro law

MANILA, Philippines – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is concerned about the continued delay in the submission to Congress of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

The first regular session of Congress is about to close but Malacañang has yet to submit the draft law to Congress. (READ: Clock it ticking on draft Bangsamoro law)

“Nag-aalala ang mga Bangsamoro people at Bangsamoro leaders sa delay,” MILF vice chairman Ghadzali Jaafar for political affairs told reporters on Tuesday, June 3. (The Bangsamoro people and Bangsamoro leaders are worried because of the delay.)

“Bawa’t araw na delay ay umiikli at lumiliit yung pagkakataon upang mabuo itong panukalang batas ng Bangsamoro,” Jaafar added. (Every day it is delayed means shorter time to complete the Bangsamoro law.)

Earlier, on its website Luwaran.com, the MILF stressed the need for the Office of the President to expedite its review of the bill.

“With time moving so fast, it is our wish that all parties must tighthen their belt to ensure the smooth-sailing of the BBL. For sure, we do not have the benefit of so much time at our disposal,” read the editorial dated May 23-30.

President Benigno Aquino III wants the law to be passed before 2014 to give the MILF-led transitional body time to transition from the ARMM towards the Bangsamoro before the 2016 general elections.

Jaafar said he remains confident with Malacañang’s commitment. 

Further delay could lead to unpleasant consequences, he said. 

“The question is, what will happen if the approval of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic law is delayed? If the ratification of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law is delayed? What will the Bangsamoro do? Will the Bangsamoro accept that? What will they do? I cannot answer that for the moment,” Jaafar said. – Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler.com