Duterte willing to revive Bangsamoro bill

MANILA, Philippines – President Duterte is ready to revive the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to continue peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). 

Speaking before the military in Cotabato yesterday, Duterte said he is ready to take a second look at the bill, but not on its constitutionally flawed provisions.

“Now, for the people who want peace, we will go out,” he said. “As for me, I am ready to concede BBL minus the constitutional (infirmities). I cannot give it now.”

Duterte’s latest statement contradicts the stand of presidential adviser on the peace process Jesus Dureza that the government will be waiting for a new enabling law after the BBL failed to pass scrutiny in the last Congress.

Duterte said his administration is ready to negotiate peace with those who want it but he will wage war against those who continue to fight the government.

“They do not want to talk to us, you continue fighting government,” he said.

“We do not want it, you force us to fight… You ask for it, we will give it to you,” he said, referring to rogue groups operating in Mindanao.

Duterte talked about the issue as he tackled peace efforts during a visit to the 6th Infantry Division in Cotabato yesterday morning.

On Thursday, Duterte had security briefings in Basilan and Zamboanga City.

Contentious provisions

Duterte has rejected the bill’s provision allowing the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region to have direct authority over its military and police components.

“Because under our Constitution now, it cannot be… regional armed forces and the regional police,” he said.

“That’s baloney. The commander-in-chief… the country would always have one control…” 

Duterte expects the BBL to face fresh scrutiny in case the MILF decides to pursue it.

“It will not come easy for us. Let us negotiate,” he said.

“This is not going to be in my time. But we will remove the things that cannot be (approved). But we are ready.” 

The area to be pursued for the Bangsamoro people is one of the things that would be subject to negotiations.

Duterte said if the Constitution would allow, they will give the authority first on who will manage the resources. 

“There is enough land, there is enough oil,” he said. The Philippines is rich in natural resources even if China gets the entire South China Sea, he added.