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Answer
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Name
Sandakan
-
Profession
Question
WHAT IS YOUR STAND ON THE OPENING OF A CONSULATE IN SABAH? Will the opening be an admission that Sabah is a territory of Malaysia?
Answer
Considering the prevailing situation vis-vis the massive deportation of Filipinos and the need to provide the necessary consular services to the same, I would personally recommend that a consulate should be with urgency and haste be open. The diplomatic niceties can be related in an appropriate forum. The necessity should prevail.
Name
Don Mustapha
- Philippines
Profession
engineer
Question
Is there hope for a Muslim Islamic Way of Life in a Majority Christian country ? How can the contradicting concept of “Separation of Church and State” and “Integration of Religion and Politics in Islam” co-exist under one country?
Answer
Dear Don, the Dansalan Declaration on March 18, 1935 is prophetic..."We do not want to be included in the Philippine Independence. For once an independent Philippines is launched, there will be troubles between us and the Christian Filipinos because from time immemorial these two people have not lived harmoniously...it is not proper to have two antagonizing people live together under one flag, under the Philippine independence"
The MNLF, as the sole legitimate representative of the Bangsamoro,negotiated with the GRP for more than a quarter of a century and signed 3 international peace agreements with 3 presidents...regional autonomy was emasculated by congress and malacanang had all the justifications not to implement the agreement in total .The trial, while it lasted, did not succeed. I personally think that it will not succeed in the near future.
It's high time the GRP should come to term and agree to the independence of the Bangsamoro Homeland through peaceful negotiation with unified peace panels from among the cross-section of the BANGSAMORO PEOPLE. This is a better option to the Filipinos, if they can truly comprehend and feel or sense the yearnings of every moros.
thank you.
Name
Samira Gutoc
- Philippines
Profession
Journalist
Question
1.) How do we redefine Bangsamoro leadership in the new millennium?
2.) What should be the VISION that capsulizes such for the new generation
to adopt?
3.) What are concrete steps/strategies to attain such vision?
Answer
Samira, the answers to all your questions should derive from the singular VISION of self-determination free from any interference and coercion.
The present Bangsamoro leadership in due time will pass the mantle unto the new generation of highly politicized and vibrant youth.
Strategies will find their logic as you journey into the wonderland of liberation and perseverance. Good luck for you.
Name
Omar Ali
- Philippines
Profession
Question
It is observed that one of the reasons why Muslims in the Philippines remain poor is because the Muslim Filipinos Leaders elected are extensively corrupt. How do you think could we curb this practice?
Answer
My good friend and colleague,
Corruption is probably not inherent to us. It’s the evil that is corrupt.
The teaching of Islam and adequate knowledge of the Holy Quran shall be our only salvation that will drive the evil from us.
Name
tun mustapha
-
Profession
Question
At present, the ARMM leaders are betting on the success of the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines:East Asian Growth Area(BIMP-EAGA). But the according to some international political analysts, the BIMP-EAGA is against the interest of the US since it would allow greater economic independence of the East Asian growth region from the US, just like the European Union. What is your insight on this?
Answer
Dear Tun,
Regional economies are the prevailing scenario but the basic ingredient and requirement that their common denominators should be overwhelm their idiosyncrasies.
International trade is like the scenarios in the jungle where might is right. You labored hard for every penny you earned.
BIMP-EAGA should be okay but let them do their homework...it's long way ahead.
good luck !
Name
Aisha Julia
- Australia
Profession
Question
What is the current involvement of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) in addressing certain issues within the framework of the 1996 Peace Agreement such as the institutionalization of Madrasahs (Islamic schools) within the Filipino educational system and other contentious issues not being addressed by the Arroyo government in implementing the Peace Agreement?
Answer
My dear Aisha,
There’s a malaise in the Islamic world...the OIC probably is inflicted with that dreadful malady (please don't take it seriously).
Under the noses and before the eyes of the OIC general secretariat and member states the provisions of the 1996 Peace Agreement were violated and not implemented and the Philippine congress reduced the agreements into scrap paper where the amended act has more value and better privilege than the present law. But the OIC is silent and ignores all these.
The OIC is simply not interested in the proper and correct implementation of the only successfully negotiated peace with their active participation. The contentious issues shall remain with no answer in sight.
Name
Rayahanna
- Saudi Arabia
Profession
Question
Could there be a time when the O.I.C. would support a Muslim Senator to ensure the passage of Muslim Legislative Bills?
Answer
With only one Muslim senator, it will be a Herculean task to accomplish. Pro muslim law is only possible in a Bangsamoro Republic. Let us hope and pray that a peaceful negotiation on the basis of self-determination and independence will be acceptable to the Filipino people. Believe me it is better for both parties concerned.
Name
Maryam
- Philippines
Profession
Question
In 1996 Misuari was acclaimed to be a hero and made a Governor of SPCPD and ARMM. He was doomed to fail since his powers, functions and budget was limited by the Government who wanted to prove that Muslims are poor Administrators. Six years later, they jailed Misuari. Is it possible that they would do the same thing to Dr. Farouk?
Answer
Maryam, honestly, I am not optimistic either on the present dispensation in ARMM. The present budget is so meager to provide meaningful changes in the lives of the constituents. i was reliably informed, foreign aid is not yet forthcoming. Granting that it will come, it will never be enough. The reconstruction and rehabilitation are on standstill and the destruction and deprivation are going on unabated. Jolo is under siege with 15 battalion combatants, 6 bomber airplanes, 4 helicopter gunships, naval gunships and heavy armaments. The war will go on and on and destruction is inevitable. The problems before my good friend Dr. Parouk are insurmountable. I hope he will make a difference.
Name
Shahid
- Pakistan
Profession
Question
If the Bangsamoro would become independent, how will we choose a leader? What assurance do we have that the Bangsamoro people will not kill each other for power?
Answer
Shahid,
If my dreams will be assured and fulfilled by the grace of Allah, I will dream now for the independence of Bangsamoro Republic. The rightful leader shall definitely come with it. A leader who is incorruptible, well-learned and fearless to face all problems of a new nation and in my dream this man has led the Bangsamoro people to a deserving independence.
The Bansamoro Republic should be a free and democratic country that shall endeavor to form a government for the people and by the people that Islam shall reign supreme and minimize or avoid killing each other for the sake of power.
Brother, every nation born should go through the tortuous and rugged ways in order to survive and endure so that the future shall be secured and hopefully we can reach UTOPIA and SHANGRILA.
Name
Nurulaji
-
Profession
Question
What is the future of Misuari now?
Answer
The fate of Misuari (if you are referring to the founding chairman of MNLF) is what the Great Pharaoh of ancient Egypt has foretold: “it has been written and it shall be done".
I want to relate to you an encounter with an old acquaintance during the recent OIC Special Session on Terrorism in Kuala Lumpur early this year. I was then in the company of brother Brah Omar and sister Roaida. The gentleman, a veteran in OIC, came and inquired on the Chairman. We were dumb founded when he said with a relaxed expression and I quote "it is better for him now to be under detention". Of course, he explained the positive aspect of his comment and Brah and I somehow agreed with him.
His detention, for all we know might be a blessing in disguise. We cannot pretend to know what Allah is preparing for him.
Name
Sandakan
- Philippines
Profession
Activist
Question
Shall the bangsamoro clamor for an Independent State? or a State under the Federal Philippine Government?
Answer
If I have to chose, without an iota of doubt, I will prefer an independent state. The history of the Bangsamoro people is replete with the glory and grandeur of a sovereign and independent nation that ruled wide and far. We were able to rule others and ourselves too. That is not dreaming...that is history. Therefore, let us not be shy to talk and discuss about it.
Name
Vanessa
- Australia
Profession
public servant
Question
Do you think the MNLF as a revolutionary movement has served its mandate as the true representative of the Bangsamoro people in providing them a sense of justice for the atrocities committed by past colonial powers and regimes? Will there ever be closure to the question of the Bangsamoro in their quest for that elusive self determination that had been the Holy Grail of the MNLF for 3 decades?
Answer
Dear Vanessa,
MNLF was admitted as an Observer within the Islamic Conference in 1977 and subsequently recognized as the sole legitimate representative of the Bangsamoro people. I suppose that the mandate to provide appropriate justice shall come after a long haul. The Bangsamoro people, particularly the youth, are very much politicized now than ever before. It is a milestone...because the future is secured. In fact, I would hasten to add that having reached that far is heartening and almost fulfilling.
After surfing into the world of the Internet (thanks to Moe, my youngest), I came across with a number of our youth. I was amazed, to say the least, to know the profound understanding and their unmitigated and unqualified commitment to the cause I call my own.
Having said that, I would like to make a statement address to my children and the children that will come that the cause is worth dying for.
Name
don loong
- Philippines
Profession
Question
Would Federalism be a solution to the Bangsamoro problem? Is it feasible? or Possible?
Answer
Federalism is popular outside metro-manila, in the tagalog region and ilocandia. In mindanao, visayas, bicol and other parts of luzon, federalism might be a better option. The over-riding reason being: manila monopolizes almost everything. Manila is often referred to as "Imperial Manila".
If you apply to Bangsamoro Homeland, the first obstacle is territory and obviously this requires more studies. Leading advocates like Nene Pimentel has his own ideas on how to divide Mindanao. We might also have our own preferred solution.
In my view, Federalism is both feasible and possible but the question arises whether it is the best solution for the Bangsamoro. It should be a good subject for discussion. Maybe Islam OnLine-Live Dialogue will sponsor it.
Name
Datu
- Philippines
Profession
Question
At present, our solution for the Bangsamoro is the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao(ARMM). But how can the ARMM leaders truly work for the interest of the Bangsamoro when it is the Malacanang: Philippine Government, who basically ‘appoints’ the leaders in a rigged election?
Answer
Dear Datu,
By this time, it's very clear and revealing that regional autonomy, particularly ARMM is a dismal failure.
ARMM at best is an instrument for experimentation by the powers that be. To many, it is like a jail house with its warden and security system under the control and supervision of the 'ultimate'. I would suppose the rest of the scenario is clear enough not to miss the point.
Don't be discouraged or be hopeless...the Bangsamoro can not and should not succumb and be helpless. Each and every Moro are called to make a stand and be dynamic. God commanded us to help ourselves first and assured us of rewards for every sacrifice we undergo.
God be with you!
Name
sandakan
- Philippines
Profession
Question
Do we really want to take Sabah and put it under the Philippines? Wouldn’t Sabah just be another Mindanao under siege by Philippine colonialism? What do you think is the best stand for Sabah? Or should we just clamor for a bigger lease of Sabah from Malaysia?
Answer
The question of Sabah, to be honest, is very delicate and sensitive.
But the issue should not be ignored. There's a need, as a matter of fact, to discuss and analyze the issue even openly with a broader base and involve not only the present claimants and the governments of Malaysia and the Philippines.
The answer to your question is not that easy...careful studies are needed. But, for whatever it's worth, I would like to add that transparency is required and the sincerity and commitment to finally resolve the issue which should be forthcoming.
Name
Mustapha
- Philippines
Profession
Question
The Bangsamoro has a very mighty and noble. But none of it is written in the Philippine History. How could we accord rightful recognition to the heroic past of the Muslims in the Philippines?
Answer
The ARMM has the Cultural Heritage agency that can exactly answer your wish and the wish of many. However the agency's budget is only good for the salaries of personnel, a number of whom are directors.
When I served for a short time as ARMM Regional Executive Secretary, I advocated for some changes in the agency and actually recommended additional funds from RLA. I don't know what happened afterward.
There is a need to commission Muslim historians and the academe to write our own history.
Name
sandakan
-
Profession
Question
Could we say that the reason the 1970’s revolution failed was because Malaysia was involved in an International Conspiracy to sabotage the Bangsamoro revolution to protect their own interest, which is Sabah?
Answer
I would like to disagree to the suggestion that the revolution led by the MNLF failed. There might be difficulty or impediments but it is natural to encounter situation as such, considering that the movement has grown big. The leadership can afford to allow more time and space to reconcile differences within its domain.
Name
tun mustapha
- Malaysia
Profession
Question
It is rumored that the Malaysian and Government conspirators created the so-called 15-man MNLF Executive Council under Gov. Dr. Hussin to overthrow Misuari. Is it possible the government used the ARMM as a ‘carrot’ so Misuari could be overthrown to break the strong foundation of the MNLF. Then they could use the ‘stick’ after Dr. Farouks’ term? Did Malaysia and the Philippines conspire to use the old Machiavellian strategy of divide and rule?
Answer
The policy of divide and rule is a time honored strategy utilized by many, particularly the colonial power. They even modified it by sub-dividing downward and further.
The rumor is persistent. Actually many share your perception or suspicion as being more accurate.
The bottom line in the scenario is probably the pursuit of national interest. But the Bangsamoro people can no longer be sidelined and ignored.
My honest advice for our people is to get more involved in their own affairs. You should help and change yourselves before others will come in.You can not afford to be a bystander and expect to be served.
Name
Samira Gutoc
- Philippines
Profession
Journalist
Question
1.) How do we redefine Bangsamoro leadership in the new millennium?
2.) What should be the VISION that capsulizes such for the new generation
to adopt?
3.) What are concrete steps/strategies to attain such vision?
Answer
I thought, I already answered your questions.
The redefinition of Bangsamoro leadership and the strategies should derived from the singular vision of SELF DETEMINATION. In other words, the leadership and strategies should be the outcome of that vision. That vision will not materialize on a silver platter.
That vision is the fundamental and collective right of the Bangsamoro as a people to determine their own future free from outside interference or coercion.
The subject of leadership is broad and sensitive. For me, it should be accountable...it's not inherited and it should be earned and labored for.
Name
don
- Philippines
Profession
engineer
Question
I have observed that our Muslim Brothers in the OPEC, especially Kuwait, Saudi, Brunei and Libya give much assistance to the Bangsamoro people in terms of grants and donations. But when they give to Muslim leaders, 80 percent usually ends up in their Pockets. But then again, if they give it to the government, our National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) would implement those funds in non-Muslim areas. How do we solve this problem?
Answer
I know for a fact that some rich muslim states provided grants, donations and loans intended for the Muslims in the Philippines.
To my knowledge and experience grants and donations can be awarded directly to any NGO registered with SEC. The same can be provided to the national or regional governments. Grants and donations do not require any approval from government. It is even encouraged as matter of policy. I am not aware of any new law or regulations after the 09/11 incident.
Loans however is different because they require sovereign guarantee for repayments among other things and that's why NEDA, DOF and OP has to approve them.
I would like to make a point on the subject of loans; on Dec.1996 in Tokyo and on Dec.1997 in Paris, the World Bank organized pledging sessions in support of the GRP-OIC-MNLF Peace Agreement of 1996 for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of ARMM and SPCPD. The session was a success...it netted a total of 1.025 Billion USD.
The World Bank provided 10M USD...the programs and projects was implemented by a presidential office created for the purpose. OPEC provided 10M USD and today I’m no longer aware of its fate.
In 1999, WB Chief informed RG Misuari in a chance encounter that 245M USD(more or less) will finance an underwater cable lines between Iligan and Bohol without any consultation with ARMM/SPCPD. Then, the question was asked what happened with rest of the 1.025B USD?
Name
Mustapha
- Philippines
Profession
Question
The Bangsamoro has a very mighty and noble. But none of it is written in the Philippine History. How could we accord rightful recognition to the heroic past of the Muslims in the Philippines?
