DOJ rejects proposed Mindanao independence

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday rejected calls for the secession of Mindanao or other parts of the country.

As the principal law agency of the executive branch, the DOJ said in a statement Monday that it “stands firmly against any attempts to undermine the unity and territorial integrity of the Philippines, as enshrined in the Constitution.

The DOJ’s statement came after former president Rodrigo Duterte warned last week that Mindanao would become independent if moves to amend the 1987 Constitution prospers

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is firm on the need to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

The DOJ said “Secession is regarded as contrary to the principles of our democratic society, as stated in Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution.”

“The DOJ remains committed to protecting our sovereignty and upholding the sanctity of the highest law of the land,” it said.

“Our nation’s strength lies in unity, and we call upon all Filipinos to reject secessionist ideologies and work together for a strong, united, and undivided Bagong Pilipinas,” it added.