ARMM marks 28th anniversary

NOEL PUNZALAN | Philippine News Agency
COTABATO CITY | November 19, 2017

All is set for the celebration of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s 28th founding anniversary on Nov. 20 that would be highlighted by ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman’s second State of the Region Address (SORA).

Hataman, in an interview by newsmen, said his Monday’s SORA could be his last as the region moves with optimism to the proposed establishment of the Bangsamoro entity aimed to replace and expand the old ARMM political setup.

The Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which sought to establish the new autonomous political entity known as Bangsamoro Autonomous Region to replace the ARMM, is still pending approval by Congress.

The BBL provides the basic structure of government for the Bangsamoro entity, enacting agreements in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro in 2014 between the national government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

“I believe that will take place soon,” Hataman said referring to the impending passage of the BBL into law.

The governor said Monday’s celebration would be simple in respect to the sufferings experienced by residents of Marawi City following the five-month atrocities caused by Abu Sayyaf and Maute terror groups.

Though not part of the ARMM, this city plays host to the region’s seat of government situated at a 32-hectare government land along Gov. Gutierrez Avenue here.

(PNA)