Just before dusk yesterday, the Bangsamoro fighters signed a peace deal that will hopefully end their political struggle and give them the peace they so longed for, for centuries. President Benigno S. Aquino III, and the Malaysian Prime Minister witnessed the signing of a pact that took seventeen years in the making. Al-Haj Murad, the MILF's political head and Prof. Miriam Coronel both affixed their signatures in a pact that will lead to the rising of the Bangsamoro.
Unknown to many, I became part of the creation of this deal, especially in determining the true concept of the Bangsamoro. One of the things which the government panel considered before resuming talks with the MILF is the striving towards a fuller understanding of what the MILF is fighting for.
More than territory, more than political hegemony and more than resource sharing is the true striving of the Filipino Moro towards a state of being, that is Bangsamoro.
Let me reiterate here that the concept of the Bangsamoro is more than the creation of a State--it is an affirmation of the existence of a Nation. The concept of the Bangsamoro arose from the very genuine aspiration of the Filipino Moro for recognition of its unique identity separate from the rest of the Nation.
Yes, he is part of the Filipino nation. Yes, in the interim, he is one among many Nations comprising the Philippine state.
For the true believer of Islam, he is part of a bigger and higher state of Being--the Nation of Islam. This Nation of Islam embraces those who believe in Islam, the religion as set forth in the Noble Qu'ran by the Prophet Muhammad PBUH upon the prodding of Allah SWT.
This concept is beyond the political concept of the State. Bangsamoro is not just a state, but a Nation of believers in the true path towards salvation.
What our fellow brothers and sisters in Islam born and living in Mindanao have achieved is not just political victory but a reclamation of the lands given to them as blessing by Allah SWT. Politics is definitely not the true striving of the Pious Believer but the affirmation of the right over the lands that Allah SWT gave him when he was born and what Allah SWT gave his ancestors when they first set foot in Mindanao.
It is upon the will of Allah SWT that the Bangsamoro rises.
Showing posts with label bangsamoro. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bangsamoro. Show all posts
Friday, March 28, 2014
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Aquino blames peace saboteurs behind twin blasts in Mindanao
President Benigno Aquino believes that groups who oppose the peace process in Mindanao are the ones behind the twin bombings in Cagayan de Oro and North Cotabato. The Chief Executive does not believe that Jemaah Islamiyah members are behind the blasts, echoing what the Armed Forces of the Philippines already announced that JI cannot be the ones who masterminded the blasts because the terror group's movements have already been contained.
Who are those who oppose the peace process?
We have as main suspect, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters or BIFF, the splinter group from the MILF. BIFF leader Ameril Umbra Kato actively opposes the peace pact, and wants to continue the legacy of Hashim Salamat, the spiritual-political leader of the MILF who believes in armed struggle.
Another group which opposes the peace pact is a shadowy cabal of Christian groups, whose members include influential people based in Mindanao. This group consists of members of the AFP themselves, both active and retired. Dislocation of Christian communities is what they fear if the peace pact eventually leads to the Bangsamoro sub-state.
The last group is reportedly, the Moro National Liberation Front or MNLF. Nur Misuari, founder of the group, wants government to honor its commitments forged in the 1979 Tripoli agreement. Until now, the Government of the Republic of the Philippines has not satisfied its side of the deal. Misuari warns of an all-out war in Mindanao, if the GRP and the MILF insist on creating a Bangsamoro sub-state.
Some analysts believe that countries with interests in the Philippines are likewise using proxies to effect chaos and confusion in this country.
As what this corner already said several entries ago, war will not end with the peace pact. Violence will continue to affect Mindanao economic and political growth maturation precisely because the region is subject to the interests of several groups. These groups have the means to sow terror. They are determined. They have mass bases.
Don't get me wrong---the idea of a Bangsamoro sub-state is noble. The steps taken by government is worthy of praise. And they can't do anything to obliterate these roadblocks caused by groups with selfish personal interests. These groups are talking about ultimate control of a region rich in natural resources, meaning, a region blessed with riches beyond one's wits.
Who are those who oppose the peace process?
We have as main suspect, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters or BIFF, the splinter group from the MILF. BIFF leader Ameril Umbra Kato actively opposes the peace pact, and wants to continue the legacy of Hashim Salamat, the spiritual-political leader of the MILF who believes in armed struggle.
Another group which opposes the peace pact is a shadowy cabal of Christian groups, whose members include influential people based in Mindanao. This group consists of members of the AFP themselves, both active and retired. Dislocation of Christian communities is what they fear if the peace pact eventually leads to the Bangsamoro sub-state.
The last group is reportedly, the Moro National Liberation Front or MNLF. Nur Misuari, founder of the group, wants government to honor its commitments forged in the 1979 Tripoli agreement. Until now, the Government of the Republic of the Philippines has not satisfied its side of the deal. Misuari warns of an all-out war in Mindanao, if the GRP and the MILF insist on creating a Bangsamoro sub-state.
Some analysts believe that countries with interests in the Philippines are likewise using proxies to effect chaos and confusion in this country.
As what this corner already said several entries ago, war will not end with the peace pact. Violence will continue to affect Mindanao economic and political growth maturation precisely because the region is subject to the interests of several groups. These groups have the means to sow terror. They are determined. They have mass bases.
Don't get me wrong---the idea of a Bangsamoro sub-state is noble. The steps taken by government is worthy of praise. And they can't do anything to obliterate these roadblocks caused by groups with selfish personal interests. These groups are talking about ultimate control of a region rich in natural resources, meaning, a region blessed with riches beyond one's wits.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
GRP-MILF Framework, a step towards the right path
The whole of Mindanao rejoiced after President Benigno S. Aquino III of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and Al Haj Murad of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) formally met and signed the peace agreement which will lead to the creation of a state known as Bangsamoro.
Government has allocated 8.59 billion pesos on top of the already 12.93 billion already allocated from the 2.006 trillion budget of 2013. These monies will support the Transition Investment Support Plan.
As what had been clarified through numerous statements, the one signed in Malacanang yesterday was just a "framework". What are the contents of this framework?
First, it recognizes that the ruling or prevailing governmental setup right now in Mindanao is unacceptable; therefore, this should be replaced by a ministerial form of government called "Bangsamoro". This form shall be created through the Bangsamoro Basic Law.
The Basic Law will be crafted by the Bangsamoro government and "correlated" with national laws.
What are the powers reserved to the Bangsamoro government?
First, the Bangsamoro exercises the power of taxation (no. 2 of IV. Revenue Sharing and Wealth sharing, of the GRP-MILF Peace Agreement). It has also the power to enter into loan agreements and accept financial grants (no. 3). However, when a loan requires sovereign guarantees, it has to go thru the Central Government.
Second, the Bangsamoro shall have the power to exploit its own resources (no. 4), subject to a sharing agreement which was not expressed in the document itself.
Third, the Bangsamoro shall have its own auditing body subject the rules of the Commission on Audit.
Fourth, the Bangsamoro shall be given political and civil rights. Fifth, the Bangsamoro is given the power to police its ranks, but external defense shall be provided for by the Central Government.
There is a provision in the agreement which says, thus:
Even in this agreement, there is a recognition that the Philippine Constitution will be "amended" for the "purpose of accommodating and entrenching in the constitution the agreements of the parties...without derogating from any prior peace agreements."
ARMM, the body now ruling the Bangsamoro territory, was created shortly after the GRP and then, the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) entered into numerous political commitments to end the war in Mindanao.
The inclusion of the ARMM governmental setup is a political commitment by the GRP with the old MNLF. This explains why there is a concrete provision in the Constitution allowing for the establishment of an autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao and was thereafter, named ARMM through an organic law crafted and passed by Congress.
Now, how would the Bangsamoro unilaterally replace the ARMM without "derogating from any prior peace agreement", when the very concept of autonomy granted by the Central Government to the Bangsamoro is being abolished thru another agreement entered by government with another entity, not the MNLF?
The GRP cannot satisfy its commitment with the MILF without first, entering into an agreement with the MNLF, abolishing the previous political commitment of granting them an autonomous region. Why? This political commitment was entered into by the Philippine State with that of the MNLF, which, by that time, enjoyed a belligerency status as a member of the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC).
Fact is, because of the OIC status of the MNLF, this political commitment towards autonomy was included in the basic law of the Republic. Therefore, this issue with the MNLF must be addressed first by the GRP even before it moves towards pressuring Congress to establish a Transition Authority.
Of course, I do agree on the abolition of the ARMM since this entity was really a frustration among Bangsamoros. But, we need to do this correctly.
I hate to say this but the GRP and the MILF cannot bilaterally agree to abolish the ARMM without first, abolishing the ARMM Basic Code. One, the changes envisioned in this GRP-MILF Peace agreement is not merely a change of name, but a substantial change in the character of the government being proposed to be established there. This is not just an autonomous region being created but a "sub-state"---or correctly termed as a minority nationalist state.
In the transition phase, yes, the concept of autonomy is still there, however, beyond the transition phase lies a more daunting task---that of establishing a ministerial form which deviates from the initial form of an autonomous region as envisioned in the Constitution. This is a substantial revision of the first political commitment, and deserves nothing short of a revision or amendment of the current provisions in the Constitution.
The view currently proposed by the OPAPP is more of appeasing oppositive views rather than legal. Our peace negotiators said it will just take the customary powers of Congress to effect the change proposed in this draft.
I agree that, yes, the ARMM Code can be abolished anytime by Congress. Since the source of the Code was Congress, it is within the powers of Congress to pass another Code.
However, when the basic governmental structure is now being discussed, parties cannot then avoid discussing the amendment of the current Constitution. Why? Because Congress does not have the power to insert a ministerial form of government in an "autonomous region" clause of the Philippine Constitution. The "autonomous region" clause in Article 10 of the 1987 Constitution mimicks that of a presidential, Republican form of government which is dissimilar with that being proposed by the GRP-MILF. The form is still very much similar with that of the Central government but enjoys "extra" autonomy in several areas.
Of course, I agree that the present form envisaged by the MILF in the agreement is more consistent with that envisioned by all Bangsamoros. However, for this to materialize, the Constitution must be revised.
Government has allocated 8.59 billion pesos on top of the already 12.93 billion already allocated from the 2.006 trillion budget of 2013. These monies will support the Transition Investment Support Plan.
As what had been clarified through numerous statements, the one signed in Malacanang yesterday was just a "framework". What are the contents of this framework?
First, it recognizes that the ruling or prevailing governmental setup right now in Mindanao is unacceptable; therefore, this should be replaced by a ministerial form of government called "Bangsamoro". This form shall be created through the Bangsamoro Basic Law.
The Basic Law will be crafted by the Bangsamoro government and "correlated" with national laws.
What are the powers reserved to the Bangsamoro government?
First, the Bangsamoro exercises the power of taxation (no. 2 of IV. Revenue Sharing and Wealth sharing, of the GRP-MILF Peace Agreement). It has also the power to enter into loan agreements and accept financial grants (no. 3). However, when a loan requires sovereign guarantees, it has to go thru the Central Government.
Second, the Bangsamoro shall have the power to exploit its own resources (no. 4), subject to a sharing agreement which was not expressed in the document itself.
Third, the Bangsamoro shall have its own auditing body subject the rules of the Commission on Audit.
Fourth, the Bangsamoro shall be given political and civil rights. Fifth, the Bangsamoro is given the power to police its ranks, but external defense shall be provided for by the Central Government.
There is a provision in the agreement which says, thus:
The functions of the Transition Commission are as follows:
a. To work on the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law with provisions consistent with all agreements entered and that may be entered into by the Parties;
b. To work on proposals to amend the Philippine Constitution for the purpose of accommodating and entrenching in the constitution the agreements of the Parties whenever necessary without derogating from any prior peace agreements;
Even in this agreement, there is a recognition that the Philippine Constitution will be "amended" for the "purpose of accommodating and entrenching in the constitution the agreements of the parties...without derogating from any prior peace agreements."
ARMM, the body now ruling the Bangsamoro territory, was created shortly after the GRP and then, the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) entered into numerous political commitments to end the war in Mindanao.
The inclusion of the ARMM governmental setup is a political commitment by the GRP with the old MNLF. This explains why there is a concrete provision in the Constitution allowing for the establishment of an autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao and was thereafter, named ARMM through an organic law crafted and passed by Congress.
Now, how would the Bangsamoro unilaterally replace the ARMM without "derogating from any prior peace agreement", when the very concept of autonomy granted by the Central Government to the Bangsamoro is being abolished thru another agreement entered by government with another entity, not the MNLF?
The GRP cannot satisfy its commitment with the MILF without first, entering into an agreement with the MNLF, abolishing the previous political commitment of granting them an autonomous region. Why? This political commitment was entered into by the Philippine State with that of the MNLF, which, by that time, enjoyed a belligerency status as a member of the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC).
Fact is, because of the OIC status of the MNLF, this political commitment towards autonomy was included in the basic law of the Republic. Therefore, this issue with the MNLF must be addressed first by the GRP even before it moves towards pressuring Congress to establish a Transition Authority.
Of course, I do agree on the abolition of the ARMM since this entity was really a frustration among Bangsamoros. But, we need to do this correctly.
I hate to say this but the GRP and the MILF cannot bilaterally agree to abolish the ARMM without first, abolishing the ARMM Basic Code. One, the changes envisioned in this GRP-MILF Peace agreement is not merely a change of name, but a substantial change in the character of the government being proposed to be established there. This is not just an autonomous region being created but a "sub-state"---or correctly termed as a minority nationalist state.
In the transition phase, yes, the concept of autonomy is still there, however, beyond the transition phase lies a more daunting task---that of establishing a ministerial form which deviates from the initial form of an autonomous region as envisioned in the Constitution. This is a substantial revision of the first political commitment, and deserves nothing short of a revision or amendment of the current provisions in the Constitution.
The view currently proposed by the OPAPP is more of appeasing oppositive views rather than legal. Our peace negotiators said it will just take the customary powers of Congress to effect the change proposed in this draft.
I agree that, yes, the ARMM Code can be abolished anytime by Congress. Since the source of the Code was Congress, it is within the powers of Congress to pass another Code.
However, when the basic governmental structure is now being discussed, parties cannot then avoid discussing the amendment of the current Constitution. Why? Because Congress does not have the power to insert a ministerial form of government in an "autonomous region" clause of the Philippine Constitution. The "autonomous region" clause in Article 10 of the 1987 Constitution mimicks that of a presidential, Republican form of government which is dissimilar with that being proposed by the GRP-MILF. The form is still very much similar with that of the Central government but enjoys "extra" autonomy in several areas.
Of course, I agree that the present form envisaged by the MILF in the agreement is more consistent with that envisioned by all Bangsamoros. However, for this to materialize, the Constitution must be revised.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Bangsamoro state is what kind of animal in the 1987 Philippine Constitution?
The basic question being asked by every single one in relation to the proposed Bangsamoro sub-state concept is this---what kind of political creature is this?
Is this to be created using regular Congress powers of regular legislation or thru the amendment of the Constitution?
Obviously, under section 1 of Article 10 of the 1987 Constitution, there are only five Constitutionally mandated political subdivisions which Congress is allowed to create, and these are cities, towns, barangays, provinces, and autonomous regions. No where in the Constitution does it say that Congress has the power to create "sub-states".
Creation of these four forms, except autonomous regions, go thru the regular routes. The creation of autonomous regions were put in the 1987 Constitution. Fact is, the Framers of this Constitution were very explicit---creation of autonomous regions of "Muslim Mindanao" and the "Cordilleras." The reason why the word "regions" are there refers to one, Muslim Mindanao and two, Cordilleras. It does not mean that Congress has the power to create two or three autonomous regions in Muslim Mindanao.
What Congress did was enact a Code that would govern the conduct and relations of people and governments in those Constitutionally-allowed autonomous regions (sec 3, Article X of the Constitution).
Now, section 11 of Article 10 of the 1987 Constitution speaks of the power to "create special metropolitan political subdivisions"subject to a plebiscite, but is the concept of a "state or a sub-state" the one being contemplated in this provision? No.
What section 11 contemplates are the aggrupation of cities and municipalities in contiguous areas to be declared as "metropolitan" or metropolises. The concept of a metropolis is dissimilar with the concept of a state or a sub-state.
Fact is, in the same provision, it is clear why the Framers allowed the creation of metropolitan cities--
Section 15 of Article X which is being used to justify the Bangsamoro statehood is stated to wit:
Now, what is clear in this provision is the creation of "autonomous regions" in Muslim Mindanao, which to my mind, does not refer to areas which Bangsamoros live, but to areas where there are non-Muslims.
Think--it would be foolhardy for the Framers of the Constitution to actually contemplate a scenario of two autonomous regions of Filipino Muslims---one, named ARMM and the other, Bangsamoro state.
If this is so, then, why specify the ARMM and the Cordilleras? As far as Muslim Mindanao is concerned, there is only one autonomous region being contemplated there--and that is, ARMM.
Is there a possibility perhaps, that other autonomous regions populated by Muslims be created side by side with ARMM? No.
The phrase "autonomous regions" does not mean autonomous regions in Muslim Mindanao. It means the autonomous regions, referring to one, Muslim Mindanao and two, Cordillera.
The Bangsamoro State has powers beyond the contemplation of the Constitution. Meaning, it has police powers, taxation, legislative, Executive and judicial powers to be exercised in a definitive territory. These are the elements of a state, which the Bangsamoro representatives from the MILF understood.
Now, did the Constitution grant Congress the power to fully erase the ARMM, without the benefit of an amendment to the Constitution?
Yes, section 18 of Article x provides that the Congress has the power to enact a Code. However, the powers of this created region is subject to the limitations prescribed in section 20 of the same provision, which are:
Now, is the Constitution agreeable to the suggestion of giving police powers to the new Bangsamoro state? Section 20 of Article X of the Constitution is explicit---the defense of the autonomous region is to be provided for by the National Government while the local security rests with the local security units.
Again, this conflicts with an existing Constitutional provision which states that the Philippine National Police is the only national police force?
Is this to be created using regular Congress powers of regular legislation or thru the amendment of the Constitution?
Obviously, under section 1 of Article 10 of the 1987 Constitution, there are only five Constitutionally mandated political subdivisions which Congress is allowed to create, and these are cities, towns, barangays, provinces, and autonomous regions. No where in the Constitution does it say that Congress has the power to create "sub-states".
Creation of these four forms, except autonomous regions, go thru the regular routes. The creation of autonomous regions were put in the 1987 Constitution. Fact is, the Framers of this Constitution were very explicit---creation of autonomous regions of "Muslim Mindanao" and the "Cordilleras." The reason why the word "regions" are there refers to one, Muslim Mindanao and two, Cordilleras. It does not mean that Congress has the power to create two or three autonomous regions in Muslim Mindanao.
What Congress did was enact a Code that would govern the conduct and relations of people and governments in those Constitutionally-allowed autonomous regions (sec 3, Article X of the Constitution).
Now, section 11 of Article 10 of the 1987 Constitution speaks of the power to "create special metropolitan political subdivisions"subject to a plebiscite, but is the concept of a "state or a sub-state" the one being contemplated in this provision? No.
What section 11 contemplates are the aggrupation of cities and municipalities in contiguous areas to be declared as "metropolitan" or metropolises. The concept of a metropolis is dissimilar with the concept of a state or a sub-state.
Fact is, in the same provision, it is clear why the Framers allowed the creation of metropolitan cities--
"... The component cities and municipalities shall retain their basic autonomy and shall be entitled to their own local executives and legislative assemblies. The jurisdiction of the metropolitan authority that will hereby be created shall be limited to basic services requiring coordination."
Section 15 of Article X which is being used to justify the Bangsamoro statehood is stated to wit:
"Section 15. There shall be created autonomous regions in Muslim Mindanao and in the Cordilleras consisting of provinces, cities, municipalities, and geographical areas sharing common and distinctive historical and cultural heritage, economic and social structures, and other relevant characteristics within the framework of this Constitution and the national sovereignty as well as territorial integrity of the Republic of the Philippines."
Now, what is clear in this provision is the creation of "autonomous regions" in Muslim Mindanao, which to my mind, does not refer to areas which Bangsamoros live, but to areas where there are non-Muslims.
Think--it would be foolhardy for the Framers of the Constitution to actually contemplate a scenario of two autonomous regions of Filipino Muslims---one, named ARMM and the other, Bangsamoro state.
If this is so, then, why specify the ARMM and the Cordilleras? As far as Muslim Mindanao is concerned, there is only one autonomous region being contemplated there--and that is, ARMM.
Is there a possibility perhaps, that other autonomous regions populated by Muslims be created side by side with ARMM? No.
The phrase "autonomous regions" does not mean autonomous regions in Muslim Mindanao. It means the autonomous regions, referring to one, Muslim Mindanao and two, Cordillera.
The Bangsamoro State has powers beyond the contemplation of the Constitution. Meaning, it has police powers, taxation, legislative, Executive and judicial powers to be exercised in a definitive territory. These are the elements of a state, which the Bangsamoro representatives from the MILF understood.
Now, did the Constitution grant Congress the power to fully erase the ARMM, without the benefit of an amendment to the Constitution?
Yes, section 18 of Article x provides that the Congress has the power to enact a Code. However, the powers of this created region is subject to the limitations prescribed in section 20 of the same provision, which are:
Section 20. Within its territorial jurisdiction and subject to the provisions of this Constitution and national laws, the organic act of autonomous regions shall provide for legislative powers over:
(1) Administrative organization;
(2) Creation of sources of revenues;
(3) Ancestral domain and natural resources;
(4) Personal, family, and property relations;
(5) Regional urban and rural planning development;
(6) Economic, social, and tourism development;
(7) Educational policies;
(8) Preservation and development of the cultural heritage; and
(9) Such other matters as may be authorized by law for the promotion of the general welfare of the people of the region.
Now, is the Constitution agreeable to the suggestion of giving police powers to the new Bangsamoro state? Section 20 of Article X of the Constitution is explicit---the defense of the autonomous region is to be provided for by the National Government while the local security rests with the local security units.
Again, this conflicts with an existing Constitutional provision which states that the Philippine National Police is the only national police force?
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Conflict of Laws Re Bangsamoro-GRP Peace deal
As the day nears the signing of the controversial peace deal between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), several questions are now slowly being asked by our Bangsamoro friends.
One of them asked about Atty. Marvic Leonen's statement on the supremacy of the 1987 Constitution with regards to rights and privileges of citizens. Leonen said, under the Bangsamoro entity, the Sharia Law will govern Muslims, but there is a limit. The entity called Bangsamoro cannot impose "cruel and inhumane" punishment such as what is allowed in the Sharia law.
So now, a question. What if a Christian Filipino kill a Bangsamoro, what law will govern? Will it be Sharia or the Revised Penal Code? What punishment will be meted to this Filipino who committed criminal perfidy?
In commercial transactions, the drawing of a check without funds is punishable by a penal provision of the Sharia. In the RPC, there is no such punishment. Which law will then be applied?
One of them asked about Atty. Marvic Leonen's statement on the supremacy of the 1987 Constitution with regards to rights and privileges of citizens. Leonen said, under the Bangsamoro entity, the Sharia Law will govern Muslims, but there is a limit. The entity called Bangsamoro cannot impose "cruel and inhumane" punishment such as what is allowed in the Sharia law.
So now, a question. What if a Christian Filipino kill a Bangsamoro, what law will govern? Will it be Sharia or the Revised Penal Code? What punishment will be meted to this Filipino who committed criminal perfidy?
In commercial transactions, the drawing of a check without funds is punishable by a penal provision of the Sharia. In the RPC, there is no such punishment. Which law will then be applied?
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Philippine Supreme Court made a grievous error in TRO
The ALL MORO ALLIANCE FOR REFORMS or AMAR stormed the High Court's offices today to demand for the immediate uplifting of the Temporary Restraining Order or TRO issued by the court enjoining the government not to implement RA 10153 which seeks to synchronize the ARMM elections with that of the national and local midterm elections in 2013.
The group accused the Supreme Court of being "anti-Moro". Question---was the decision really smacks of anti-Islamism? Yes.
The SC knew that a TRO would definitely place the entire peace process in jeopardy. Many Bangsamoros prefer to replace the current ARMM leadership with the ones they trust.
Many Bangsamoros prefer Eid Kabalu, the former spokesperson of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to lead them as Governor and prepare ARMM for the 2013 elections.
What the Supreme Court did was a disservice to the people. The least that the Bangsamoro people need is an obstruction to the attainment of peace. This TRO came at the time when both the MILF and the GRP have both reached a compromise on how to solve the contentious issues of peace in that region.
A source say that it was the Arroyos who influenced the Supreme Court to issue that TRO. Now groups are frantic looking for other solutions or points to agree; and second, this could be used by other MILF groups in justifying their presumptions that the government is ill-advised and not totally honest in looking for concrete solutions to end the decades-old conflict.
Really, politics continue to monkey wrench its way against peace and development.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Ermita admitted no actual rebellion in Maguindanao prior to Martial Law
I have one message to Ermita and his rambunctuous bunch of idiots there picking their noses while eating pork and some even sipping wine while I write this---it is tooo damn late for them to repent and ask for mercy.
They initiated a very serious thing that surely will develop into more complications, particularly in Mindanao. One complication---it just proved that ARMM is a damning failure.
It just negated the very idea of ARMM as a fitting and comfortable compromise between Imperial Manila and those who aspire for a truly autonomous Bangsamoro land.
It lay bare the nefarious plan of government to give Bangsamoros temporary respite for war, cooing them to acquiesce, while slowly stabbing them in the back with their plan to elect Muslim puppets in the ARMM.
The Ampatuan family is one such puppet. And with an Adiong there assuming the ARMM governorship post, the puppet show continues. ARMM was made a tool by the Philippine government to perpetuate the continued enslavement of the Bangsamoro.
The Bangsamoros will never be free if they allow themselves to be fooled once more by offers of an improved version of ARMM.
ARMM is a puppet show. ARMM is an elaborate sing-and-dance routine aimed at lulling the true Bangsamoros to sleep; an entertaining charade meant to soften the Bangsamoro's desire for true freedom!
The discovery of huge caches of arms and ammos only show you, Bangsamoro, that this government intends to perpetuate civil war among your ranks, to break your hold over your lands, to break your ties, and dominate you by force!
Autonomy is not the answer to the Bangsamoro Problem. Fact is, autonomy worsens the wounds of the Bangsamoro, inflicted by centuries of enslavement by those who salivate in their riches and wealth.
Autonomy is the anesthesia that your slave masters slowly inoculated into the very heart of Bangsamoro land to make you forget the true path towards freedom!
Be free, fellow Bangsamoros! You have only your chains to break!
Federalism is also not the answer. Federalism will only perpetuate the rule of the traditional Muslim politicians, whose desire is to enslave their fellow Muslims in their anti-Islamic philosophy of moderation. Moderation allows enslavement not just of the body but of the mind, and eventually, the Spirit.
Freedom means breaking the hold of these self-proclaimed Muslim royalties and their armies and obliterate them from the face of the earth! There is no other Monarch nor royal One, than Allah SWT!
Break the chains that bind you from the Sinsuats, the Ampatuans, the Adiongs, the Mangundadatus, the Datumanongs, the Dilangalens, the Tans and all others who claim ascendancy due to their so-called "blue blood". Their veins are not colored blue. Their blood is as red as ours!
These puppets foster pseudo-Islam in their territories, enriching themselves with your wealth and allowing you to wallow in extreme poverty while they fatten their bank accounts and their families with their puppet fees.
These families are scourges, they are the scurvies that worsen the wounds of slavery. They are collaborators. They want you to drop your arms and abandon the True Banner of Islam. And why do they want that?
These collaborators and those who want to enslave you want you to forget those vast oil fields just lying underneath the vast Sulu sea. They want you to forever struggle and fight this self-perpetuating cycle of war for you to abandon your rich lands, for you to forget that they're exploiting your ore-rich mountains and rivers full of gold. They want war in your land so that they can exploit your women and take them to foreign lands as prostitutes and slaves. They want your men to forever be slaves to the lands which your ancestors gave as inheritance.
The only way out of this misery is struggle towards the complete liberation of these Bangsamoro lands from tyrannical hold. Revive the spirit of your ancestors which lie dormant in each of your breasts. Ask Allah SWT for mercy and Allah will give you freedom!
Enough of accommodation and of trying to be Filipinos. You are not Filipinos. You are Bangsamoros! Be proud of your heritage. Be proud of your lineage. Be proud of your History. Be extremely proud of your future!
Peace! Peace without the sacrifices of the Brave and the Pious is nothing. Peace is the reward of the Brave, the crown of the True Patriot and the trophy of the conqueror.
Be worthy of it.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Peace, The Ulamas, PCID and Vagni Update
The recent releases of foreign hostages thru the intercession of ulamas in Jolo, Sulu is testament of the efforts made by a small non-governmental organization. Called the Philippine Council on Islam and Democracy (PCID), this organization founded by long-time peace advocate Amina Rasul, has made significant progress in peace in Mindanao, especially in those war-torn areas such as Basilan, Sulu, Lanao and Tawi-Tawi. PCID has been in the forefront of peace initiatives, silently working their way to the hearts and minds of the Bangsamoros in Mindanao.
Ulamas are highly respected authoritative figures in the Bangsamoro homeland. They educate the Bangsamoros in the ways of Islam. Many advocate for the separation of the homeland from the clutches of imperial Manila rule; yet, there are many who also want this to be a peaceful transition instead of armed struggle.
Peace, as some analysts surmise, can only come about if the Manila government recognize the uniqueness of the Bangsamoro culture and grant full independence. There is no compromise. For decades, Bangsamoros have staged numerous campaigns and even war, to show that what they want is self-governance.
Self-governance is a sensitive thing, especially if you ask those hawks in the palace. For them, the only response is war. That's why, as we speak, there are hundreds if not thousands of soldiers fighting the Bangsamoros for that precious real estate called Mindanao. War brings only misery and more apathy to victims and combatants. It makes matters worst.
What is so problematic is when third parties enter into the picture, spoiling the broth and making it more difficult for both the Bangsamoros and Imperial Manila to enter into a peaceful settlement. Here is where the PCID enters into the picture.
PCID strives to unify the disparate forces within the Bangsamoro Republic to arrive at one common agenda for peace. Ulamas are critical members of this striving since they serve as both religious and proto-political advocates within their own respective territories. That's why, for the first time, PCID organized a fully united Ulama Council which aims to continue the Bangsamoro struggle within the parameters of peaceful resolution and mediation.
This is where PCID has been a success for numbers of years. Governments such as the United States, Britain and other European nations have supported PCID's efforts in the region. And the PCID will continue serving and striving for the complete unification of the Bangsamoros.
.By the way, foreign hostage Vagni is still missing. Some reports say he has been abandoned in a desolate area to die. Military sources are confirming this as we speak. Vagni, reports say, is sick. He's been suffering from hernia. Ulamas are also actively trying to determine the location of Vagni and convince the ASG to hand the hostage over. However, complications reportedly arise. Vagni is nowhere to be found
Ulamas are highly respected authoritative figures in the Bangsamoro homeland. They educate the Bangsamoros in the ways of Islam. Many advocate for the separation of the homeland from the clutches of imperial Manila rule; yet, there are many who also want this to be a peaceful transition instead of armed struggle.
Peace, as some analysts surmise, can only come about if the Manila government recognize the uniqueness of the Bangsamoro culture and grant full independence. There is no compromise. For decades, Bangsamoros have staged numerous campaigns and even war, to show that what they want is self-governance.
Self-governance is a sensitive thing, especially if you ask those hawks in the palace. For them, the only response is war. That's why, as we speak, there are hundreds if not thousands of soldiers fighting the Bangsamoros for that precious real estate called Mindanao. War brings only misery and more apathy to victims and combatants. It makes matters worst.
What is so problematic is when third parties enter into the picture, spoiling the broth and making it more difficult for both the Bangsamoros and Imperial Manila to enter into a peaceful settlement. Here is where the PCID enters into the picture.
PCID strives to unify the disparate forces within the Bangsamoro Republic to arrive at one common agenda for peace. Ulamas are critical members of this striving since they serve as both religious and proto-political advocates within their own respective territories. That's why, for the first time, PCID organized a fully united Ulama Council which aims to continue the Bangsamoro struggle within the parameters of peaceful resolution and mediation.
This is where PCID has been a success for numbers of years. Governments such as the United States, Britain and other European nations have supported PCID's efforts in the region. And the PCID will continue serving and striving for the complete unification of the Bangsamoros.
.By the way, foreign hostage Vagni is still missing. Some reports say he has been abandoned in a desolate area to die. Military sources are confirming this as we speak. Vagni, reports say, is sick. He's been suffering from hernia. Ulamas are also actively trying to determine the location of Vagni and convince the ASG to hand the hostage over. However, complications reportedly arise. Vagni is nowhere to be found
Friday, October 10, 2008
Requisites for Bangsamoro State-hood
There's a heated exchange going on between Jester-in-Exile and one FV followed Dan U Ignacio. It's all about the Bangsamoro Question. In the next few days, I'll be writing about this, especially on the concept of nation-building. What are the internationally-recognized conventions that allow people, even indigenous ones, to form their own governments or craft their own independent states. I'm pretty particular about this because of what's happening right now in Kosovo which could be used by the Arroyo regime as a justification for the grant of a similar BJE setup. Kosovo, as you may well know, what's to secede from Albania because of ethnic clashes. The international community has stepped up its efforts to recognize the independence of the Kosovo people.
Now, if really the Bangsamoro people want their own independent state, they would have to prove five (5) things:
1. The Bangsamoro people are not Filipinos.
2. The Bangsamoro people are being enslaved and oppressed by the Philippine government.
3. The representative of the Bangsamoro may have to exercise dominion over the territories covering the BJE through force, if necessary.
4. They have to exercise governmental functions in that territory and must exercise or show that they can keep the power at all times against external threats.
5. They have to step up efforts at getting international recognition of the Bangsamoro as a people.
These requisites should be satisfied by the Bangsamoro. However, I fear the worst for the Bangsamoro people because they are still not united. They have a disparate voice which harms the entire struggle. They need one unifying force that would make people toe the line and I think that it is only for the love of Allah SWT and the pious exercise of Islam will this be achieved.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
How Muslim Youths in Mindanao think
There's an interesting dig at a conversation made by a journalist with a young Tausug over at rebelpen (http://rebelpen.wordpress.com). That entry shows you why young Tausugs turn into rebels overnight. Analysts would always blame poverty for this. Yes, probably. But, gut issues just concretize their prevailing beliefs. It is not the sole reason why Muslim youth rebel against the system.
Its their interpretation of history. It's their prevailing belief that they have been subjugated by Christians. It is how they view the world.
Look, Islamic culture is different from Christian beliefs. That much we need to admit. We believe there's a thin barrier separating these religious philosophies together but this is more illusory than fact. That barrier is as thick as a building.
The more Christian settlers in that part of the world hammer their own laws, their own beliefs and their own system of doing things, the more radicalize these Muslim youths become. Why?
Because their history is one of subjugation. There's no co-existence happening in Mindanao. What exists is an uneasy tolerance between both cultures that would definitely lead to conflict. Its just a matter of time before this explodes in our faces.
That leads us to one question--what's the cause of this? The obvious answer is weak government. Government is supposed to be the equalizer, the neutralizer. The neutralizing or equalizing force is the enforcement of law, which, to my memory, is non-existent. When governments are weak, the more conflict a society gets because there's no force that enforces the laws. When people feel aggrieved and when laws are perceived to be unequal, favoring a certain culture or system of beliefs over the other, war is inevitable.
IN the case of Mindanao, how do you expect the Bangsamoro to follow Philippine laws when these laws have been predicated from Graeco-Roman precepts, totally antithetical with Shariah or Islamic law? Would you expect a devout Muslim to follow a law based on Christian beliefs? No.
In our case, it would be very hard to find a "middle ground". Religious tolerance cannot be done with a weak government. Now, if government continues to be weak, then, it's time for us to consider giving the Bangsamoro a shot at governance.
Let them govern themselves. Those lands which they claim as theirs is indisputable.
Its their interpretation of history. It's their prevailing belief that they have been subjugated by Christians. It is how they view the world.
Look, Islamic culture is different from Christian beliefs. That much we need to admit. We believe there's a thin barrier separating these religious philosophies together but this is more illusory than fact. That barrier is as thick as a building.
The more Christian settlers in that part of the world hammer their own laws, their own beliefs and their own system of doing things, the more radicalize these Muslim youths become. Why?
Because their history is one of subjugation. There's no co-existence happening in Mindanao. What exists is an uneasy tolerance between both cultures that would definitely lead to conflict. Its just a matter of time before this explodes in our faces.
That leads us to one question--what's the cause of this? The obvious answer is weak government. Government is supposed to be the equalizer, the neutralizer. The neutralizing or equalizing force is the enforcement of law, which, to my memory, is non-existent. When governments are weak, the more conflict a society gets because there's no force that enforces the laws. When people feel aggrieved and when laws are perceived to be unequal, favoring a certain culture or system of beliefs over the other, war is inevitable.
IN the case of Mindanao, how do you expect the Bangsamoro to follow Philippine laws when these laws have been predicated from Graeco-Roman precepts, totally antithetical with Shariah or Islamic law? Would you expect a devout Muslim to follow a law based on Christian beliefs? No.
In our case, it would be very hard to find a "middle ground". Religious tolerance cannot be done with a weak government. Now, if government continues to be weak, then, it's time for us to consider giving the Bangsamoro a shot at governance.
Let them govern themselves. Those lands which they claim as theirs is indisputable.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
An Independent Bangsamoro State
The Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI) just reported a draft Memorandum of Agreement between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP). What it says there is very clear--the Bangsamoro will have their own government or state. The supposed draft will be signed by Tuesday. If this is true, I believe this is the right prescription to end the ages-old conflict in Mindanao.
The supposed MOA extends present ARMM territory and gives complete autonomy to the MILF in governing Bangsamoro lands. They will have complete sovereignty. What this means is that they will be given full control over their taxation, bureaucracy and even given police powers. However, though this is quite evident from the MOA (i have a copy myself), both parties coached the terms "shared responsibility" to mean that the territory is still within the purview of the GRP, albeit, limited to some aspects, for example, the use and "enjoyment" of natural resources, etc.
Many people, especially NPR's Bangsamoro friends, hail this as a "landmark deal". NPR thinks so too. For years, we've been disturbed by conflicts in Mindanao when the solution is actually within reach--just grant and secure the identity of the Bangsamoro.
Should this be approved, expect an exodus of Tausugs and Maranaos back to their homeland. Expect Middle Eastern support as well as those from Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. Also, expect Chinese Muslims to invest in the BJE. We might see a more prosperous Mindanao in the years to come, which could probably, even surpass that of Imperial Manila.
The supposed MOA extends present ARMM territory and gives complete autonomy to the MILF in governing Bangsamoro lands. They will have complete sovereignty. What this means is that they will be given full control over their taxation, bureaucracy and even given police powers. However, though this is quite evident from the MOA (i have a copy myself), both parties coached the terms "shared responsibility" to mean that the territory is still within the purview of the GRP, albeit, limited to some aspects, for example, the use and "enjoyment" of natural resources, etc.
Many people, especially NPR's Bangsamoro friends, hail this as a "landmark deal". NPR thinks so too. For years, we've been disturbed by conflicts in Mindanao when the solution is actually within reach--just grant and secure the identity of the Bangsamoro.
Should this be approved, expect an exodus of Tausugs and Maranaos back to their homeland. Expect Middle Eastern support as well as those from Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. Also, expect Chinese Muslims to invest in the BJE. We might see a more prosperous Mindanao in the years to come, which could probably, even surpass that of Imperial Manila.
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