On the Bangsamoro Question--dismantle the instruments of war by making Muslim Filipinos feel the concern and love of government

Since the establishment of a Sultanate around the 14th century in those islands of Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Basilan, the Muslims of these territories were mostly traders. Sulu was the center of regional trade between these islands and Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam. Westerners also trade with them, including the British, Dutch, Spanish and Americans.

When the Americans came, they unleashed war in these territories, and caused the massacre of hundreds of thousands of Tausugs. Worse, due to the intense regionalism felt by Maranaos and Maguindanao-ans, all the more fueled by the Low Intensity Conflict (LIC) strategy employed by the Americans, the Sultanate of Sulu came under the political control of the Americans and placed within Philippine territory and thus, became a province under the Republic of the Philippines.

During the time of Magsaysay, government encouraged Filipinos from the North and from the islands of the Visayas to occupy certain lands in Mindanao. It was then that conflicts arose when greedy speculators seized the lands of the Bangsamoros. It thus led to interracine fighting which occurs up to this day.

Bangsamoros are fighting for their land. As written in the Noble Qu'ran, land is one of the blessings of ALLAH SWT and fighting for the right to possess and occupy when provoked by outside forces, is a holy right and one of the conditions for jihad.

Until now, most Tausugs do not recognize the right of the Republic of the Philippines to exercise political, social and economic control over their lands. And I understand why. How would you shore up trust with the Republic when at the time of Marcos, instead of extending to them economic opportunities, the Tausugs got war instead. From the seventies until now, there has been numerous encounters and wars and conflicts in these parts of the South that has scarred it for life. Generations upon generations of Muslims in these parts have not felt the concern of the government, hence it stymied economic development in the area which caused the people to be perpetually bonded and enslaved by political dynasties which exploit the poverty of the people.

To liberate the Tausugs, they must struggle against these forces which are being perpetuated by the government. The problem of the Muslims in the South is not what kind of governance model they should be under--it is the lack of opportunities to live under the precepts of their religion that allows this never-ending cycle of violence in their communities.

For a pious Muslim, life is simply a life lived according to Islam. When this life is disrupted, jihad follows. It is in the DNA of every Muslim to fight for what is Right, condemn what is Wrong and raise the banner of Allah SWT, every single moment of his life.

To solve the Bangsamoro problem, there should be a conscious effort by government and assisted by civil society and the private sector for the Tausugs and the rest of the Bangsamoro Nation to show the concern and sincerity of government that these institutions are aiming to:

1. Create a stabilized environment in the South, dismantle the causes of conflicts, de-mobilize the mechanisms of war, and re-model an economic system that suits the Muslims living in Mindanao.

2. Assist SMEs in these areas through government securities and investments. Grow this sector by allowing more banks to extend loan services to basic sectors, particularly SMEs and traders.

3. Dismantle political dynasties thru a series of political actions meant to empower groups instead of individuals to ascend the rungs of power in the regional and provincial levels. The type of governance model should be consultative, with one Sultan representing the interests of all Muslims in the area. It should be called a confederation of sultanates---the Sultanates of Sulu, Maguindanao and Lanao, the traditional sultanates which until now, are recognized by all Muslims there as their own.

4. Institutionalising components for change thru government intervention, allowing the growth of organs of power and ensuring strict compliance of Shariah, the body of laws respected by every Muslim.

Insstead of turning these areas once more into a magnet for regional jihad, the Duterte administration should begin re-inventing the wheel so to speak, and promote and provide lasting solutions to this age-old problem in the South.

Instead of war, let our government talk with the stakeholders there. Exhaust all possible means for peace. Then, if these solutions are still ineffective, then, create peace thru war.

Pnoy's Nobel peace prize at what costs?

The iconic Manila Bay sunset

Some people including this writer are trying to understand where President Benigno s. Aquino and his bunch of advisers, who includes Teresita Deles and Sheila Coronel are coming from. These people are risking so much political capital and even risking the very security of this state just to push for a proposed bill that is full of holes. Why? Why are these people so afraid of the wrath of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front? Or there are other reasons?

Some say its because the MILF is politically allied with Akbayan, a strong administration ally. Akbayan has been advocating for something like this for the Bangsamoro. Yet, pushing the envelope at this point runs the risk of a political suicide because of the unpopularity this BBL got not just because of the Mamasapano incident but of the unconstitutional provisions which were laid bare before the public by the very same legislators tasked to review it. Forcing this issue upon Congress puts the political future of Akbayan at a very high risks. So does the president's.

Others say, probably it is part of the administration's plan for President Aquino to step down with a Nobel peace prize tucked in his belt. But, is it really worth it considering that the palace knows for a fact that the fruits of their labors will not be immediately felt and really, this is more of a suntok sa buwan thing? As admitted by government and even by the MILF, this BBL is an experiment. Anything can happen including a derailment in its implementation. If implemented, the BBL may either create perpetual peace or perpetual destabilization. Besides, how sure are they that Pnoy would really get a nomination or even win the prize ? These are all in the realm of speculation, even an infantile infatuation.

Most believe that this administration is being forced by third parties, countries whose security are inevitably linked with Mindanao's. One, Malaysia. Mindanao is a very serious foreign policy issue for this Muslim confederation, not just in terms of security but in terms of trade. Notice that in the BBL, there is no mention of Sabah, a state being claimed by the Philippines. What happens now if sulu becomes a part of the Bangsamoro territory? Remember that the sultanate of sulu is the one pushing for the retaking or reclaiming of Sabah. What happens if sulu becomes just a province or a political subdivision of the bangsamoro republic ? Surely, it will affect the claims of the sultanate of sulu.  Why is it that we don't include sabah in the equation? Does this mean that the government is formally  abandoning its claims over that state?

By the very action of Pnoy during the Sabah siege by members of the sultanate says much of how we now regard our position in relation to sabah. Will the bangsamoro republic continue the claim or will they eventually abandon it?

With the tremendous financial assistance the government will pour in the proposed bangsamoro republic, there is a big possibility that it will even be the center of trade and commerce in the  BIMB-EAGA economic region. Having more resources than Malaysia, the chance of the bangsamoro developing even faster than Luzon and visayas is bigger than usual. Middle eastern countries are interested in mindanao and so do western countries, such as the United States, Europe and first world countries in asia, like japan. China is likewise a very keen observer in mindanao affairs.

Seriously, there are bigger geopolitical interests involved in the bangsamoro question and resolving this impacts on all of these interests.

In terms of the global fight on terror, mindanao is one place which is most critical. As early as the eighties, mindanao has already been identified as a possible flashpoint in the terror fight. It is an important component in the fight because a radicalization of mindanao will impact on the security of other countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and singapore. Mindanao may become a battlefield of sorts, Asia's version of Iraq or Syria. It may even be the source of Islamic fighters who will pursue the globalist agenda of Isis in this part of the world.

Now, going back to our original question--- at what price is that Nobel peace prize worth?

A BBL that is as incomplete as it is unconstitutional would create more trouble than peace. One, an unconstitutional law is sure to be challenged before the Supreme Court, which is one cause of delay. Another one, such delays might cause distrust even from one of the parties involved and that is surely, one serious reason for another delay.

President Aquino should be extremely careful not to sacrifice his last remaining political and moral capital in an issue where the outcome is not entirely sure.

Senate probe on the Mamasapano Massacre: Play of words and technicalities to hide the truth

Basing on the two days worth of hearings, we, the People, find the following as a confirmation of earlier assumptions.

First, there was a problem in command and control. What is the problem? No one in government wants to assume responsibility. President Aquino blames the SAF commander while the commander himself points to a suspended PNP chief for giving him the "order" which Purisima terms as "advice".

It also shows that the MILF, which is supposed to be partners of government already given the signed peace agreement, also lost command and control. For seven long hours, the MILF leadership failed to control their 105th brigade, the same unit where Marwan spent his last days and where Basit Usman was hiding and reportedly training some MILF members some are women fighters.

Second, there are attempts at lessening the "impact of the incident" by raising "technicalities" and most government officials are resorting to "play of words". Such terms as " close to mission objective", " tactical coordination" were all raised to muddle the issue and are attempts at literally obfuscating the real issues.

Lastly, it is obvious that the very same government peace panel are mouthing the official alibi of the rebels, even in many aspects, defending their actions by again, resorting to technicalities. Prof. Sheila Coronel and Peace adviser Teresita Deles are supposed to be pursuing the people's interests. However, Coronel is even re-stating the claim of the MILF as a revolutionary organisation and re-iterating the MILF's "belligerency status".

Now I understand why the MILF managed to get many concessions from the government--we have a very weak government panel, always ready to sacrifice the national interests for the sake of the MILF. 

Why is our government so afraid of the MILF when, during the time of former president Estrada, our military has proven its effectiveness of defeating this rebel group? The AFP has defeated the MILF before--even decimating their camps. 

Now, with government monies (President Aquino gave 5 million pesos to Mohaqher Iqbal, remember last year?), the MILF is buying arms and strengthening itself. 

Let's admit that our government's fault is we granted the MILF a "belligerency status". That explains why this rebel group is now issuing bold statements against the very republic who seeks peace with them.

I have stated it long before--prior to government entering into an agreement with the MILF, the OPAPP should have assessed if the ones negotiating with them, particularly the MILF leadership, still has command and control of most of their forces in Mindanao. 

What is not being revealed here is the fact that most MILF units are now recognising the chain of command of the BIFF leadership specifically of Umbra Kato. That explains why the head of the 105th brigade of the MILF also acts as the BIFF leader in the area. 

This explains why a study conducted early on reveals that in the event of a peace agreement, there is no certainty of implementing such measures because of the very fact that the MILF leadership is not entirely sure if it can issue commands to its troops and if those troops would actually respect or even follow the MILF chain of command.

Former MNLF chairman Nur Misuari has already publicly announced that most MILF fighters are now BIFF. So, even if this government enters into peace with the MILF leadership, violence and conflicts will still break out in Mindanao precisely because most MILF fighters do not hold faith in the "promises" of the Central Government, and thus, are conditioned to fight for INDEPENDENCE rather than "autonomy."

Meaning, whatever the government says right now, even giving us false assurances of success of the peace pact, the fact of the matter is--WE ARE STILL IN THE STATE OF WAR BECAUSE THE OTHER SIDE THINKS THEY ARE.

Peace talks and BBL--dead in the water

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MILF-PNP SAF CLASH DESCRIBED AS SLAUGHTER

A SOURCE DESCRIBED WHAT HAPPENED LAST SUNDAY AT MAMASAPANO MAGUINDANAO WHERE MORE THAN 42 MEMBERS OF THE SPECIAL ACTION FORCE OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE WERE SUMMARILY EXECUTED BY MEMBERS OF THE MORO ISLAMIC LIBERATION FRONT (MILF) AS A "SLAUGHTER."

" It was like these cops were sent to the slaughterhouse. Why did I say that, Pat? It's because most of them sustain very close bullet wounds, mostly in the head, signifying execution killings. Is that what you call a mis-encounter?" says the source, a junior officer of the SAF.

Another source, this time a resident of Maguindanao who was a former rebel, now living in relative peace there, says they witnessed that the cops were already inside the camp when the clash happened.  The source says, when some of the cops stopped firing, they reportedly tried to surrender but most were still gunned down.

Those who were still breathing were shot close-range and even beheaded by some members of the MILF.

The cops went inside the camp with a presumption that they were considered "friendlies" by the MILF. What happened is, they were considered "enemies" by members of the MILF, who already entered into an agreement with government.

And that is also the reason why the AFP units from Datu Piang and even the town of Sharif Aguak weren't able to send augmentation forces because they were threatened by the MILF that they would be violating the peace agreement should they send those forces inside the MILF camp.

Likewise, a very high official of government says that there was coordination on the part of the PNP SAF yet was ignored and it was too late already when the AFP learned of this because the PNP SAF elements were already inside the camp and executing their mission.

Their mission, which apparently had the blessings of Malacanan, was to secure the arrests of two international terrorists--Zulkifli al hir or "Marwan" and Basit Usman, both wanted for a string of bombings in Asia. Marwan has a US$5 million bounty upon his head.

Is peace elusive in restive South? A look into the Bangsamoro Question

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Breaking News! MILF forces massacre 30 cops in Maguindanao

In what could be the potential spoiler in peace efforts in Mindanao, reports about the clash between forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Special Action Force (SAF) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) have now resulted to at least thirty members of the police force dead and five casualties from the side of the rebel group.

The clash which began morning of Sunday and still rages as I write this, happened in a small barangay of Tumakalipao in the town of Mamasapano in the province of Maguindanao. Initial reports indicate that SAF forces were on a mission to arrest two known international terrorists--Zulkifli bin Hir, alias "Marwan", a Malaysian bomb expert and Basit Usman, a Jemaah Islamiya bomb making expert.

These terrorists were reportedly hiding in an MILF camp. Von Al Haq, MILF vice-chair for military affairs say their forces fired upon the government forces because the SAF violated the peace agreement by not coordinating with them. According to the peace agreement, any military or police operation has to be coordinated with the proper authorities, in this case, the AFP and the MILF before they execute it inside MILF camps or territories claimed by the rebel group.

Two things: One, why did the MILF fired upon our government forces immediately? As partners in the peace deal, the MILF should have exercised extreme caution and maximum tolerance. Those SAF members were there to effect an arrest upon known terrorists. They were carrying legitimate warrants for the arrests of the suspects.

Why did the MILF use lethal force against these cops when they were not being engaged anyway? The very fact that one of the MILF commanders, a certain "Mama" admitted that most of those killed weren't able to retaliate because they weren't carrying loads of ammunition.

If our forces were there to fight, they would have been seen carrying tons of bullets and probably even backed up by artillery or armored personnel carriers. Or, possibly even provided with air cover. That is the usual police operation.

I presume that the MILF is still not entirely convinced or probably is still not an ally for peace by the government. What is a mere hour used to negotiate or coordinate? Such operations against high value targets are good only thru stealth and surprise. Probably those SAF elements knew that those terrorists are being coddled by some MILF and BIFF elements and informing the MILF could result to another escape by these long-wanted terrorists.

The second question is---why is there BIFF elements in the same area as the MILF? Aren't they supposed to be enemies? BIFF elements reportedly fired upon government military forces sent to augment or save those cops from catastrophe. Soldiers weren't able to save much lives because they were met with lethal force by the Muslim rebel group.

I am extremely worried that this incident would spark into a bigger war very soon. The Senate is expected to talk about the Bangsamoro Basic Law today, Monday. What happens is anybody's guess.

I am greatly displeased with the way the MILF conducted themselves. Pious Muslims always honour their word, their commitments. Those who do not, lie, and lying is a grievous sin against Allah SWT. Mujaheddins like those of the MILF know this. Violence or killing one person is the last resort. It is always best to argue one's side against another, especially a disbeliever. Killing especially a hapless or defenceless person is not acceptable to Islam.

Zamboanga Seige by MNLF caused by mismanaged peace talks

The mismanagement of the peace negotiations with Bangsamoros in Mindanao is the direct cause of the breakout of violence in Zamboanga perpetuated by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

MNLF elements led by several Suluanons affiliated with Nur Misuari has just occupied some portions of Zamboanga City. Last August 12, Nur has just declared independence and declared himself President and Chief of the MNLF armed forces. The government ignored this overt action and continued ignoring the MNLF.

Probably, the government is under the false belief that Misuari's group is no more and they continue talking with Muslimin Sema faction. The Sema faction has the old guards of the MNLF. What they don't know is that Misuari's group has just consolidated the young commanders.

Abdul Sahrin, Secretary General of the MNLF faction does not support Misuari's armed action. They continue to support the flawed peace talks of the government.

Had the government invested in hearing the sides and viewpoints of all stakeholders in the area, this would not have happened. Blame ideology. The Deles faction is affiliated with the Akbayan which has direct and strong links with the MILF, not the MNLF. This explains why no deal was entered into with the MNLF. First, an erroneous analysis of the MNLF and risks of not negotiating with them and second, a misinterpretation of the entire Bangsamoro problem.

MNLF holding Atyani

This thing is getting more curious and "mysterious" to some, as day goes by.

Yesterday, two radio stations, DZBB and DZMM asked a certain Atty. Immanuel Fontanilla, said to be a trusted spokesperson of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Nur Misuari about the alleged "clash" of the ASG and MNLF fighters in Sulu which resulted in the deaths of 56 Bangsamoros.

According to this man, MNLF forces have already overran the Abu Sayyaf Group lair in Patikul Sulu. They have confirmed the alleged deaths of 11 MNLF fighters while about twenty or so ASG fighters also died. Among those who died were alleged four government agents or troops who fought side by side with the ASG. Fontanilla said ASG fighters, about 300 of them, have fled towards neighboring island of Basilan.

Fontanilla, speaking for and on behalf of the MNLF, even claimed that the MNLF has recovered three or four foreign hostages, but did not reveal their names. Fontanilla even claims that some or several political personalities are interested in these recovered hostages, but the MNLF is wont in turning them over to these people.

Many believe that Jordanian journalist Atyani is now among those recovered by MNLF forces.

Based on his interview, there seems to be an indication that the MNLF is waiting for the return of Nur Misuari, their chairman, before the MNLF will turn over these hostages to the government side. Many see this as a "leverage" to the MNLF considering the fact that the organisation was reportedly left in the lurch by the Aquino administration shortly after the GRP and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) entered into an historic understanding.

The MNLF wants nothing more than a part in the proposed Bangsamoro transitional council which was one of the bodies envisioned to manage the affairs of the Bangsamoro lands prior to the establishment of the Bangsamoro Islamic sub-state.

The MNLF is the recognized secessionist group by the international community since the Organisation of Islamic Conference or OIC conferred to it a belligerency status before. It has since fallen into power after Nur Misuari entered into an agreement with the Philippine government and headed the ARMM, reportedly a failed experiment.

When the negotiations between the GRP and the MILF went into full gear and was publicized, several MNLF leaders bewailed the reported "lack of interest" by the GRP in honoring the peace agreement the GRP entered with the MNLF which was reflected in the 1979 Tripoli agreement.

MNLF even threatened to derail peace talks.

Now, this clash between MNLF and the ASG--what does this mean? Does this mean that the MNLF wants nothing more than a share in the power to be handed over to the Bangsamoro by the Philippine government before the end of Pnoy's administration? Will the MNLF use as leverage, these hostages now under their security?

On the Bangsamoro Peace Deal---a complete revision of the 1987 Constitution is in order

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Philippine Government in perpetual hostage: Are we so weak a State?

Is the State so weak, that we have to always give money to the rebels to maintain peace and order? Are we saying that this Government is always in a state of perpetual hostage by its enemies? That mere talk and diplomacy are two useless terms meant to justify the use of public funds without being accounted for by government?


Malacanang is in a quandary on how to explain to the public the thing they did. Is this a practice already when it comes to revolutionary groups, that the State is always being coerced by these enemies of the State, and the best way is to pander to their wiles and caprices?


During the time of the late president Ramon Magsaysay, there was no report of the State giving monies to the troops of Luis Taruc. Magsaysay, however, encouraged them to consider land. Some of those who fought the wars, asked to be relocated in Mindanao, to start life anew.


Ferdinand Marcos did not move an inch nor surrendered any inch of the Republic's territory when he was at the helm of power. There were concessions made during the 1979 Tripoli Agreement, but these concessions neither violated any existing laws nor the Constitution. Everything was made within the rules of Diplomacy. 


You can only compromise with an enemy if you are in a vulnerable state, but even if you're weakened, there is still a small semblance of strength in you. 


Don't tell me that this government does not trust its military and police that much that it decides or elects to just give money to rebels just so that peace be maintained? 


Just like before, the Aquino administration blamed the previous dispensation for entering into an agreement with the Moro rebels and giving in to the request of 5 million pesos.


Peace negotiators should have "re-negotiated" this and pointed out that this giving of "donations" is violative of the law. Atty. Marvic Leonen is one of our brilliant lawyers and yet, this thing passed him? Why was there no respect of the law by the very ones who are mandated by law to implement it?


Don't blame Arroyo for this--blame the Aquino administration's peace advisers who are ready to compromise everything, even the kitchen sink, just to pander to the rebel's demands.


Heads should roll for compromising the very integrity and security of this Republic. 

Oust Leonen as negotiator

Instead of hastily calling for a war, President Benigno Aquino III did the right thing---release 10 billion pesos to fund the AFP modernization program. 


Aquino is sending a message: before he releases the dogs of war, these "dogs" should be armed to the teeth first. Nice decision. 


That is not shows firm leadership--but shows wise judgement as well. In the mind of the President, these lawless elements can be surgically removed from Basilan with an AFP equipped with the right equipment, training and supplied with the proper materiel. 


This is entirely possible with modern technology in warfare. Why surge now when soldiers are poorly armed, inadequately trained and lacks the proper motivation for attacking such a "bastion" like Basilan.


Improvements in intelligence gathering should also be prioritized by the AFP. Proper analysis of ground intelligence is paramount in every offensive action. 


Aside from this, the President should also oust Atty. Leonen as head of the Government panel negotiating with the MILF. Atty. Leonen should be held responsible for these humiliating attacks.


Had Leonen been firm in his negotiations with these insurgents, they will not be as brazen in their attacks as what they did in numerous places in Mindanao. 


Leonen should be replaced by someone who knows the terrain, the psychology and the organisation of the MILF. Leonen, according to sources, is perceived as a weakling. This man should never be allowed to represent the State in any negotiations with "toughies".

Failure in intelligence seen in Basilan massacre

Demoralization has indeed set in among the ranks, and quite understandably so. Several sources revealed that most soldiers are dismayed with the decision of the political leadership. However, some junior officers whom I was able to share lunch with, have a different perspective: they agree with the decision of the President not to declare war. For one, it is foolhardy for the AFP to attack now since the enemy expects such a retaliatory move and two, war would inevitably worsen the situation.


Come to think of it, this is the second time that soldiers were massacred in that area. It is not that there was a lapse in communicating their presence with MILF and warlords in that place--it is utter stupidity for someone to order an amphibious attack against a well-prepared enemy. The AFP should have known better since several years ago, a group of Marines were killed and beheaded by the enemy in that same place. 


That supposed dawn operation should not have taken place. It was the responsibility of the ground commander to assess the situation first on the ground, before any order of attack. Why would you order such a mission, knowing fully well that you're entering an enemy territory. It is always presumed that an enemy territory has more firepower and enjoys a tactical advantage. Why would you order a group of specialists to go there in the area in surreptitious mode, knowing that such an action would merit a disastrous retaliation?


These groups in Basilan are territorial. They are always on the lookout for strangers or what they term as mushrikuns in their area. It is already common knowledge that outsiders are killed or executed not just in Basilan but also in Tawi-Tawi and Sulu. When I covered Sulu a decade ago, Tagalog-speaking soldiers and policemen are mowed down even by the common people when they enter markets to buy food. 


Good intelligence is the best means of avoiding such disasters. And of course, common sense. 

The Bangsamoro Question and its 2-fold struggle

I've been to Mindanao several times already and though I am not born there, I know what is happening there. Mindanao is not just rich in natural resources--it is also being enriched by the people who live there. 


Many of my friends live in Mindanao. They are both Christians and Muslims. For my Muslim friends, some of them consider themselves as Bangsamoros. Before, the term is exclusive for those who only believe in the Islamic faith and who reside in Mindanao. Now, even Christians consider themselves as Bangsamoros.


Seriously, there is nothing wrong in Mindanao. The entire region is blessed with so much riches, especially natural resources, that, given the chance for self-rule, Mindanao may even eclipse Metro Manila and Cebu as the most progressive and the richest place in the Philippine archipelago. I heard so many foreign investors willing to invest in the place. And I personally know that Bangsamoros will definitely do good not just in establishing strong trade relations with other countries, but also will develop their place as a modern, cosmopolitan place in no time.


I visit General Santos every month and I love the place. There is peace and tranquility there. Christians and Muslims live peacefully there. There is no rancor between the two religious groups simply because every single thing has been provided for every one, regardless of religion, for self-development. You don't see shanties there, a stark difference from the ones in Davao del Sur, Maguindanao and Lanao. Every single resident of GenSan is contented by their lives because the city itself gives equal opportunity to anyone willing to invest her or his time for self-improvement and for commerce.


I wrote here several entries ago, that, the only problem in Mindanao is peace and security. Muslims claim a part of it for themselves which is quite understandable if we are to base it in History. However, though their claims have basis in history, the very question as to who really own Mindanao is still subject of extreme debate.


Muslims have dominated the Western and Eastern hemispheres of Mindanao while the North and the South are predominantly Christian. Now, the question is-is it possible for these territories being claimed to be ceded to their original owners? Yes, it is under a legislative action. Government must change the provisions of the Constitution and refigure its territorial claims to be able to accommodate such a solution.


And who, may I ask, are the original owners of these lands? It would have to be the traditional royal families in Mindanao, most of them, warlords. So, in the event of a reconfiguration, traditional royal families will have to battle it out with both the MILF and the MNLF for political power.


The Bangsamoro question will not be resolved through a peace agreement because even if the government accedes with the demands for self-rule, the entire region will still be beset by violence. A civil war between and among different interest groups will shortly happen once government or the MILF succeeds in its independence claim.


For example, this early, the so-called Sultan of Sulu is making claims of the Jolo Group, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi---three areas within the territories being claimed by the MILF as bangsamoro territorial homeland. The possibility of a clash is very likely there, since the Sultan will not give in to the rebels once an MILF Bangsamoro homeland is recognized.


Really, the Bangsamoro struggle is two-fold: resistence against imperial Manila and once it is achieved, resistance against so-called traditional royal families who will surely claim ownership of several lands under the Bangsamoro homeland territory. 


What Mindanao needs is a hegemon---a strong and powerful force able and capable of unifying these groups under one proposition---development. When every single group in Mindanao agrees to keep it safe and simple in the name of development, and not religion, then, every thing will take care of itself, naturally, like what happened in Malaysia. 

JI, MILF and the Bangsamoros who strive towards Jihad

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Balabac Massacre---Gloria's Version of Jabidah

A visually enraged Nur Misuari, chairman emeritus of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) blasted the military for the alleged “massacre” of seven MNLF members during a reported encounter in Balabac Island a few days ago in Palawan.

Misuari, who formed the MNLF in 1972 after the alleged Jabidah massacre perpetuated by military forces in Corregidor Island, said that the deaths of these seven MNLF members, including their leader and his two sons, are suspicious and reminds one of the infamous Jabidah massacre during the Marcos regime.

For those lived during those tumultuous times, Jabidah was the codename of a military project by Marcos. Several Muslims were tapped and trained in the island of Corregidor for the sole mission of invading Borneo and claim the island as Philippine territory. When the plan was discovered, Marcos immediately ordered the massacre of the Muslim volunteers by the military.

Shortly after the Jabidah massacre, Misuari, who was a professor of the University of the Philippines in Diliman at that time, formed the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), the precursor of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). After a bloody war which left 150,000 dead, the MNLF and the government went to the peace table. Former First Lady Imelda Marcos used her links with Libya to talk peace with the MNLF but it was only after a few years, in the 1990s, that the MNLF agreed to lay down their arms and enter into an agreement with government.

Misuari said he could not believe those claims by the military that those killed in Balabac resisted arrest. The AFP said the firefight started when army troops tried to serve a warrant of arrest against one of the MNLF members, allegedly for extortion. That’s unbelievable, says Misuari, since those who were living in Balabac Island are all Tausugs and relatives, so they can’t be an extortionist among them. Besides, says Misuari, they have been there since several decades ago.

Misuari vows to meet Defense secretary Gilbert Teodoro to discuss this, but the former Bangsamoro leader said, ” The MNLF will never forget this. For every blood spilt, there would be accountability,” says Misuari who once led the Bangsamoro revolutionaries in a bloody war that left 150,000 killed in Mindanao.

MIndanao Peace Talks Bound to Fail Again!

There are current reports indicating a breakthrough in the peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The top leadership of the Bangsamoro people reportedly agreed to negotiate peace with the re-constituted peace panel of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines. Tha could be good news for some. However, upon closer analysis, this is highly improbable given the fact that the Central Committee of the MILF already took a position contrary to what government right now is announcing to the entire world.

Right after that controversial Supreme Court decision invalidating the Memorandum of Agreement-BJE, the MILF Central Committee already decided not to go back to the negotiating table if this is to be chaired by appointments of Arroyo. Philippine president Arroyo has just reconstituted the panel to be headed by Foreign Undersecretary Rafael Seguis and includes lawyer Tomas Cabili Jr., Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman, former General Santos City Mayor Adelbert Antonino, and former legislator Ronald Adamat.

Note that the reconstituted panel includes people who really don't know the status of years of negotiations with the MILF and has even taken a contrari stand on the issue of the Bangsamoro juridical entity. The MILF already said that it will not return to talking peace if the GRP just wants to reconfigure the conditions and terms of reference of the MOA-BJE. It will only talk peace under the conditions pre-set by those stated in the original MOA-BJE.

Notice also that those who compose this government panel stands to debate more with the MILF leadership instead of going to constructive dialogue. Again, this peace talks, if ever it resumes, is designed to fail.

The reason why GRP is just doing this now and announcing the willingness kuno of the MILF to talk peace is very simple---Arroyo wants to project a good image before leaders of the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) who will hold their conference here at the Dusit Hotel on January 9. 2009. Government wants to project an image that it is protecting the civil, economic, political and religious rights of the Bangsamoro when the contrary is happening.

"Tis the Season of Betrayal and a Bloody War threatens MIndanao

No Mindanao-based congressmen attended the House Committee on Justice hearing on the Motion to Intervene by Manolo Quezon, myself and some other bloggers. General Santos Congresswoman Darlene Custodio and Cong. Teofisto Guingona III were a no-show, a day after defending the MOI vigorously before the Committee. Custodio decided to attend the Euro Generals hearing and skip the more important House Committee on Justice. Probably, Cong. Antonino-Custodio thought that she'll probably waste her time anyway since all odds are against Quezon etal. Same as the other Mindanao-based Congressmen.

I condemn the double-standard being shown by these legislators. A day prior to the purported signing of the MOA-AD, not a few legislators registered their howl of protest against Malacanang. Some even went as far as declaring war against the Bangsamoro People. Their absence clearly indicated that most, if not all of their Muslim constituencies favor the MOA-AD. They just don't want to alienate them.

As I wrote here, most if not all Muslims in the Philippines favor the MOA-AD. Firstly, it's the best option available for them and many think that the agreement is a halmark one. Secondly, the prospect of re-negotiations seems remote, given the stand of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on the matter. Lastly, both the GRP and the MILF have taken solid stands already. The GRP wants the Bangsamoro fighters to give up their arms first before they again participate in the negotiations. While the MILF wants nothing short of the terms of reference indicated in the MOA-AD. Something gonna give.

But, this is NOT the point of the intervention. Giving independence or even recognizing a Bangsamoro Islamic state is still the purest intention of those who understand the Bangsamoro struggle.

What the motion to intervene just wants to show is that the President of the GRP committed a grave abuse of discretion in even allowing such a proposal to go past the negotiating table. The GRP President has the duty to maintain territorial integrity which, in the minds of those under her government, she has effectively sold to the other party.

The President of the GRP does not have the right to give or partition the Philippine territory. This is tantamount to treason.

Gloria committed a treasonous act. Though some legal eagles would say that the act was not consummated since both parties failed to sign the agreement. At best, this could fall under frustrated treason, which is still punishable by Philippine laws.

Soldiers and ordinary citizens know that Gloria committed a high crime. Yet, the House Committee on Justice chaired by a Gloria lackey decided otherwise. Cong. Mat Defensor himself and those who voted for the non-inclusion of the MOI clearly betrayed the Republic and should be made accountable for their crimes against the Filipino People.

Now, because of their betrayal, war in Mindanao is expected to worsen in the coming weeks. The government admitted that it already spent 1 billion pesos fighting the Bangsamoro army in Mindanao. Defense secretary Teodoro, a few weeks ago, proposed for additional budget. The AFP was ordered to do an all-out military offensive against the Bangsamoro people in Mindanao.

War hangs in Mindanao, another betrayal by Gloria not only to the Muslims in Mindanao but also in the international community.

Remember that in her speech before the inter-faith forum at the United Nations, Gloria promised to re-negotiate for peace. Gloria reported before the world that her efforts at peace are bearing fruit in war-torn Mindanao. If it is, then, why the beefing up of the AFP?

Truly, it is the season of betrayal. The cost? Millions of futures lost and lives destroyed.

Brewing Revolt In Mindanao--quo vadis Gloria?

While we are so engrossed with the food crisis, a revolution is a-brewing in Mindanao.

Yesterday, a band of Islamic militants staged a rally in Sulu, one of the Southernmost islands of the Philippines (see story below). The rallyists called for independence from Manila, the seat of power. Police were unable to resist the militants, who carry long knives tucked in their waists.

Obviously, this is a mockery of the administration of Mrs. Arroyo. One, it was a defiant act of rebellion. That action was a direct contravention of existing Philippine laws. The rallyists should have been arrested for inciting to rebellion and/or secession since they are calling for independence of Sulu. Police were helpless in arresting the militants, calling the incident just a way to let off steam.

Was that just a way to let off steam? No.

That incident was plain and simple rebellion. If it happened here in Manila, the rallyists could have been arrested, even mauled by police. But no. That one occurred in Mindanao, and our cops are afraid shitless.

Second, that act shows that Islamist are preparing for something bigger than a call for independence. It's just a warning to Manila that Tausugs are again ready to go to war against them. Is Manila ready for war?

Obviously, Manila is ill prepared for another war in the South. That might cause Mrs. Arroyo's quick downfall. Imagine a scenario where hundreds if not thousands of troops being killed in Sulu. Imagine another conflagration similar to the one which happened in the 1970's where Marcos sent his troops to suicide missions in Mindanao.

Government peace panel adviser Jesus Dureza said it might take a while to implement the remaining unmet provisions of the MNLF peace pact. What Dureza meant is this--Manila is not that serious in really institutionalizing peace in Mindanao.

Talks are rife that former MNLF chairman Nur Misuari will join the MNLF panel in OIC talks in Jeddah. Will it appease the Tausugs? No. Remember that only a few weeks ago, Nur has been replaced by a government factotum in the person of Ampatuan. Ampatuan has zero credibility among his people. The entire MNLF Central Committee does not have the personality to influence the remaining MNLF fighters toe the government line.

What about the MILF? Reports say, the biggest Bangsamoro group is split into different factions, due to the inability of MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad to maintain organizational cohesion. Many young MILF fighters vowed not to follow Murad should he proceed with peace talks with Manila. Reports say as many as 3,000 young fighters will continue waging war with Manila even if both sides sign a peace pact.

A revolution in Mindanao could take its toll on this administration, both politically and economically. It could break the backbone of Mrs. Arroyo who cling to power in the barest of threads. Remember that her troops have suffered innumerable defeats in the battlefield against Muslim fighters in the South. The once-feared Marines have been decimated in that area. If war breaks out, how will government explain the expected deaths and casualties of government troops there? How will it cope with the exodus of thousands of families? Is government logistically prepared to face this eventuality?



Monday, April 21, 2008


Muslims march for freedom in Sulu

The Sultanate of Sulu was a Muslim state that ruled over much of the islands off the Sulu Sea

By Al Jacinto, Correspondent

JOLO, Sulu: Hundreds of Muslims turned up Sunday and demanded independence for the province of Sulu, once the seat of power of the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo.

With clenched fists and chanting “Allahu Akbar” (God is great), the marchers clad in their traditional garb demanded independence of Sulu, an archipelago in the remote part of the Philippines.

“We want independence. We want our ancestral land back from the infidels,” Datu Ibrahim said. Others assailed the military for alleged violations of human rights of Muslims in Sulu after seven people and an off-duty soldier were killed by security forces in a raid on an Abu Sayyaf hideout in Maibung town in February.

The marchers went around the town of Jolo, many waving red flags emblazoned with kris and other traditional weapons, urging citizens to join them. Policemen guarding the town kept a close watch, but did not stop the marchers, some of them carrying long knives tucked on their waist, a long tradition still practiced in many parts of the island.

“People here are just expressing their sentiments. It is their freedom to express what they believe is rightfully theirs. As long as they don’t break any law, it is fine and police are watching them,” one police sergeant said.

The Sultanate of Sulu was a Muslim state that ruled over much of the islands off the Sulu Sea. It stretches from a part of the island of Mindanao in the east, to North Borneo, now known as Sabah, in the west and south, and to Palawan, in the north.

The Sultanate of Sulu was founded in 1457 and is believed to have existed as a sovereign nation for at least 442 years. The Sultanate of Sulu obtained Sabah from Brunei as a gift for helping put down a rebellion on the Borneo Island.

Mindanao, Palawan, and the islands of the Sulu Sea were colonized by Spain, which ruled the country. Christian settlers later occupied Muslim ancestral lands.

The British leased Sabah and transferred control over the territory to Malaysia after the end of Second World War. Even after Borneo became part of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur still paid an annual rent of 5,000 ringgit to the heirs of the Sultan of Sulu Ismail Kiram. At least a dozen people are claiming to be the real sultan of Sulu and North Borneo.

The MILF, the country’s largest Muslim rebel group, which is negotiating peace with Manila, is also fighting for independence in Mindanao, a region rich in natural resources, but is deep in poverty and torn by strife and terrorism.

However, many politicians whose family owns vast tracks of lands and business interests in Mindanao are opposing the MILF demand for a separate state, saying, it would displace Christians in areas covered by the Muslim ancestral domain.

Peace talks were stalled last year after government and rebel negotiators failed to agree on the scope of the ancestral domain, which is the most important issue before the rebel group can reach a political settlement.