MANILA – A total of 57 lawmakers, with 53 representing the region, have signed a manifesto titled “Unified Manifesto for National Integrity and Development,” which firmly opposes the proposal by former President Rodrigo Duterte and Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez to secede Mindanao from the Republic of the Philippines.
Lanao del Norte 1st District Rep. Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo, the chairman of the House Committee on Muslim Affairs, asserted that they refuse to endorse an unconstitutional proposal that threatens the territorial integrity of the Philippines.
“We, the elected representatives of Mindanao in the House of Representatives, firmly oppose the calls for the secession of Mindanao from the Republic of the Philippines. Our stance is deeply rooted in our belief in national unity, the power of inclusive development, and the promise of a peaceful, progressive future for all Filipinos, including the Indigenous people of Mindanao,” the manifesto read.
The manifesto highlighted that the rich cultural tapestry of Mindanao symbolizes the broader principle of “unity in diversity” within the country.
“We stand for fostering understanding and collaboration across all communities within the framework of the Republic, enriching our shared national identity and heritage,” the manifesto added.
The lawmakers recognized the pivotal role of Mindanao in the national economy. They highlighted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s efforts to prioritize the region’s development, emphasizing initiatives in infrastructure, agriculture, and economic empowerment.
Moreover, they noted that the Marcos administration’s emphasis on peace and security aligns with the government’s commitment to fostering reconciliation and empowering the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
“We believe that lasting peace is achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and inclusive governance, under the banner of our sovereign nation,” according to the lawmakers.
Furthermore, they advocated for the “thorough prosecution” of individuals who promote division and those who openly defy the constitution, endangering the nation’s sovereignty.
In addition to the 53 lawmakers from Mindanao, three party-list representatives endorsed the manifesto: Pwersa ng Bayaning Atleta Rep. Margarita Ignacia Nograles, Kabayan Rep. Ron Salo, and Kusug Tausug Rep. Shernee Tan-Tambut.
Biliran Rep. Gerardo Espina was the sole Visayan lawmaker who signed the manifesto.
