Hasten BBL approval

Amid issues like the Marawi liberation and hazing fiasco, we have forgotten another big one that has been pending for many years: the approval of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

President Duterte has urged Congress last month to hasten its approval to avoid more “trouble” from secessionist groups in Mindanao.

I believe that Mr. Duterte remains committed to the promise he gave the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that the BBL would be approved. The BBL defines the basic structure of the proposed Bangsamoro autonomous state in Mindanao, a key feature of the federal form of government he and his allies are pushing for.

The draft measure was submitted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission to the President last July 17.

Despite the delay, I hope the MILF and MNLF shall remain cooperative with the government. Let us wait for the second or third reading before this year ends.

JUMEL G. ESTRAÑERO, [email protected]