Support for BBL to boost pols’ chances in 2016

MANILA, Philippines - The chances of winning of candidates in next year’s elections will depend on their support for the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), according to government peace panel chairman Miriam Coronel-Ferrer. 

“We have at least three million people in the Bangsamoro who are eligible to vote. We have that kind of support. That could make or break whoever is running for the Senate, whoever is running for president,” Ferrer said.

She said the Bangsamoro political entity would introduce significant structural and operational changes to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

“That is a big deal to achieve lasting peace and development in that part of Mindanao. I hope that is clear to all aspiring would-be presidents. I think they don’t want come 2016, to inherit problems. It would be better if they would inherit solutions,” Ferrer said.

Ferrer said the BBL reflected President Aquino’s instruction to the panel since the start of negotiations.

“What we really want to happen here is for people to have genuine empowerment through the parliamentary system that will compel them to establish political parties that will compete during the regional elections in the Bangsamoro,” Ferrer said.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles said the President has been resolute in his quest for peace and security for Mindanao and the entire country.

“That is why we continue to thank the Filipino public for their support in this endeavor. We also thank the leaderships of the House of Representatives and the Senate for their support,” Deles said.

She said she hopes the BBL would be passed soon.

In his last State of the Nation Address, the President, in calling for Congress to pass the BBL, said the Bangsamoro peace process is among the legacies of his administration.

The BBL, which was based on the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, aims to establish a parliamentary political system that will replace the ARMM.

Aquino challenged critics of the BBL to offer an alternative.