Binay wants MNLF, Lumad people included in BBL

MANILA, Philippines — The sentiments of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the indigenous peoples in Mindanao should be considered in the ongoing government discussions on the Bangsamoro region, Vice President Jejomar Binay said Wednesday.

Binay said the other stakeholders' views should be taken into account if lasting peace in Mindanao is being sought.

"Perhaps we could include Lumads and MNLF. Our apprehension is that if we have already peace, there will be other groups that will sow chaos. It should be answered," Binay said, as cited in a state news report.

Observers have feared the backlash of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front's rival groups once its proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) has been approved.

Discussions on the BBL have been halted in Congress following the killing of 44 Special Action Force commandos in January by members of the MILF and the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

Binay urged lawmakers to scrutinize the BBL and ensure it does not counter constitutional provisions and compromise national sovereignty.

Despite the March deadline for the BBL passage being pushed by Malacañang, the vice president said the congressional approval should not be time-bound as it has to be deliberated well.

Senate Committee on Local Government chairperson Sen. Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., meanwhile, said the hearings on the Bangsamoro law will resume once investigations on the clash are completed by the Philippine National Police's Board of Inquiry. - Camille Diola