Philippine ready to use ‘forces’ to counter any secession attempt
This statement follows former President Rodrigo Duterte’s threat to secede certain southern islands from the broader archipelago
The Philippine government stands prepared to employ “authority and forces” to counter any endeavors aiming to fragment the nation, a security official said Sunday.
This statement follows former President Rodrigo Duterte’s threat to secede certain southern islands from the broader archipelago.
Duterte, amid the breakdown of his alliance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, has advocated for the autonomy of Mindanao, his hometown, from the Philippines.
The discord between the two leaders revolves around differing perspectives on constitutional amendments. While Marcos asserted that amending the 1987 constitution was intended to facilitate foreign investments, Duterte accused him of manipulating constitutional changes to prolong his stay in power.
Eduardo Ano, the national security adviser, asserted in a released statement that any move toward secession would be met with unwavering government force.
Ano specifically referenced “recent calls to separate Mindanao” without explicitly mentioning Duterte, emphasizing that the national government will not hesitate to utilize its authority and forces to thwart any efforts to dismantle the Republic.
Ano further highlighted the potential repercussions of secessionist calls, emphasizing the risk of undermining the progress achieved through the government’s peace deal with former separatist groups. Mindanao has historically grappled with violence and conflict, adversely impacting investments and leaving numerous villages in poverty.
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the largest rebel group in the region, had previously signed a peace agreement in 2014, renouncing their pursuit of independence in exchange for increased autonomy in the Bangsamoro Muslim region.
Despite the challenges, Bangsamoro chief minister Ahod Ebrahim reaffirmed his commitment to the peace agreement, while government peace process adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. urged Filipinos to reject any calls for destabilization.
Philippine armed forces chief Romeo Brawner conveyed a similar message to soldiers, urging them to remain united and loyal to the constitution and the chain of command during a speech on Saturday.
Source: Newsroom
