Muslim group hits delay in BBL passage

From the Manila Times (Aug 29): Muslim group hits delay in BBL passage

COTABATO CITY, Maguindanao: The 1-Bangsamoro Movement, a Muslim cause-oriented group, has bewailed the government slogan of “daang matuwid” (straight path) as “daang mapanlinlang” or confusing route.

Maulana Alan Balangi, the group’s founding president and lead convenor, said his group is lobbying for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in its original version that was formulated in accordance to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro or CAB.

Balangi said that if the government is sincere in dealing with the Bangsamoro in accordance with its slogan “daang matuwid,” the Muslim Filipinos in particular will not encounter any problem in transacting with the government.

Muslims pray five times a day, always read the Fatihah or the Opening Chapter of the Holy Qur’an that includes a verse on “siratal mustakim” meaning straight path or “daang matuwid.”

With this, it is incumbent for the pious Muslim to deal sincerely with their fellow human beings, including the conduct of transaction with the government.

Balangi also noted several issues against President Benigno Aquino 3rd, including the latter’s failure to discuss the welfare of the Bangsamoro people in his State of the Nation Address and that there is not enough participation of Muslims in the Aquino administration, among others.

With this, Balangi said many of the Bangsamoro people are now doubtful if the BBL can be passed into law in the soonest possible time.

“Baka abutin ito ng siyam-siyam bago magiging isang ganap na batas [This might take some time before it can be passed into a law],” said Balangi.

However, he said be that as it may, his group is hoping that the passage of the BBL will pave the way towards the attainment of national solidarity and the lasting peace and progress of the Bangsamoro people that includes not only the Muslims but also the Christians and the indigenous people of Mindanao.

http://www.manilatimes.net/muslim-group-hits-delay-in-bbl-passage/214089/