AFP: No threat from MILF over BBL

MANILA, Philippines – The military does not expect a falling out with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) because of the failure of Congress to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

Armed Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the mechanisms of the peace talks are working and the people have seen the benefits of the peace process.

“It seems that both sides are (bending over backward) and there is an assurance from the government side that the peace process will continue under the next administration,” Padilla said yesterday.

Padilla cited the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group, which is tasked to isolate and interdict criminal groups and terrorists. The mechanism allows the government and the MILF to work together to maintain peace and order.

Padilla, however, admitted that spoilers would continue to express their opposition to the peace talks.

“People have seen the positive effects of peace. There are many projects and their lives have improved. But of course, spoilers cannot be avoided,” he said.

Some sectors have expressed concern over the bypassing of the proposed BBL, believing this could lead to conflict.

Sulu Rep. Tupay Loong previously warned of a “shooting war” involving people who are fighting for freedom, justice and their own interests.

Lanao del Sur Rep. Pangalian Balindong, Deputy Speaker for Mindanao, said radical secessionists could exploit the failure to pass the measure.

Such view was echoed by Vicariate of Sulu parish coordinator Fr. Romero Villanueva, who believes the non-passage of the BBL could prod radicals to seek independence.

Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, chief of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said his unit has not monitored any movement by the MILF after the bypassing of the proposed BBL.

“Their (MILF) leadership has given assurance that with or without the BBL, they will pursue peace and that’s a good sign that peace will be sustained,” Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan, however, maintained the military is prepared for any eventuality. The MILF has about 10,000 fighters based on military estimates.

The proposed BBL, which would have implemented the 2014 peace deal signed by the government and the MILF, was bypassed in Congress despite being a priority bill of the Aquino administration.

The measure aims to set up a new Bangsamoro political entity with greater political and economic powers.

President Aquino has ordered the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process to coordinate with all concerned parties so that peace efforts would be sustained after he steps down from office.

MILF officials said they remain committed to peace despite the failure to enact the proposed BBL. However, they believe the non-passage of the measure showed that Filipinos are not yet ready for reconciliation.