Hataman: Bangsamoro law ratification won't cancel fiestas, ban pork

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law will not mean Christian practices will be outlawed, Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman said.

"It’s not true that the Christians’ practices such as fiesta and eating pork will be prohibited. ARMM has been there for many years and fiestas have not been prohibited. You go to Wao, Lanao del Sur, and Lamitan City, Basilan City where fiesta and faith are equally respected," Hataman said.

He said that some who are campaigning against the BOL in predominantly Christian Isabela City, Basilan are misleading the people by saying fiestas and eating pork will be banned in the proposed Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

"I think that's a very desperate move. In the case of Isabela, the anti-BOL [campaigners] are desperate. Their strategy is to mislead and misinform the people," Hataman said.

Hataman said those against the BOL should not engage in misinformation. He also appealed to residents to read the law to avoid being deceived.

He said he is optimistic the people of Basilan and Tawi-Tawi will support the BOL. 

Hataman also said he is in constant coordination with Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan Jr. for the public forum to enlighten the people of the Bangsamoro law.

Tan's father, Abdusakur Sr., has filed a petition before the Supreme Court questioning the constitutionality of the BOL. 

The BOL, called the Bangsamoro Basic Law in the 16th Congress, will implement the 2014 peace agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The law creates a new region to replace the ARMM. 

A plebiscite for its ratification will be held on January 21, 2019.