Philippine government warns of 'warlordism' in Mindanao if peace process breaks down

MANILA, Philippines  (Xinhua) - The Philippine government warned today that "warlordism" and lawlessness might prevail again in Mindanao if peace process with the Muslim rebels bogged down due to the withdrawal of support by lawmakers on the passage of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. appealed to the members of Congress to reconsider their position of withdrawal of support for the proposed measure after the death of over 40 police elite forces on the hands of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) last Sunday.

"Those who have expressed reservations about supporting the enactment of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law may wish to consider the adverse consequences of not pursuing the peace process, such as a possible return to the old order characterized by 'warlordism,' lawlessness, misuse of public funds and the near- total breakdown of governance," he said in a statement.

While recognizing the challenges posed by the violent incident in Mamasapano, Maguindanao where members of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force were killed, Coloma stressed the importance of keeping in mind the vital objective of attaining long-term peace, stability and progress in Mindanao.

At least two senators have already withdrawn their support for the draft BBL pending in congress following the tragic incident.

The passage of the draft BBL, which will serve as the organic law for the envisioned Bangsamoro government, is part of the comprehensive peace agreement signed in March last year between the Philippine government and the MILF, the largest Muslim rebel group in the country.