MILF still hopeful for Bangsamoro law

Moro Islamic Liberation Front Chief Negotiator Mohagher Iqbal and Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, chairperson of the Government Peace Negotiating Panel for talks with the MILF, attend the Senate inquiry on the Mamasapano clash. Senate PRIB/Albert Calvelo

MANILA, Philippines - The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is still hopeful that the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will be passed even though the House of Representatives suspended deliberations on the proposed measure.

In an interview with radio dzMM, MILF chief peace negotiator Mohagher Iqbal assured their commitment and sincerity for the peace agreement.

"Sa part ng MILF at part ko po, meron pa rin akong malaking pag-asa na truth will triumph and the BBL will push through," Iqbal said.

The MILF also conducted its own investigation of the Mamasapano, Maguindanao clash which killed 44 Philippine National Police Special Action Force commandos during an encounter with Moro rebels last January 25.

"May pag-asa pa tayo kaya ang MILF nakasentro ang panawagan na magkaroon ng isang independent, fair and impartial investigation," Iqbal added.

The MILF chief peace negotiator expressed his gratitude to the Senate for inviting him during the inquiry of the said incident.

During the Senate hearing, Iqbal denied links with terrorist organizations and reiterated that the MILF remains as the government's "partner for peace."

On the other hand, House Speaker Feliciano "Sonny" Belmonte Jr. remains optimistic that the BBL is not dead and will be passed.

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