Peace council presents findings, proposed revisions on draft BBL

Hilario Davide Jr. (C), Howard Dee (L), Dr. Cielito Habito of the Citizens Peace Council. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/LYN RILLON

The Citizen’s Peace Council on Tuesday presented before Senate the findings of its study on the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

Former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. and other members of the council reiterated their stand on the BBL’s contentious provisions, which were earlier discussed in the House of Representatives.

READ: Peace council turns over Bangsamoro law report to Senate

Speaking on behalf of Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Rev. Fr. Joel Tabora said the council agreed that the BBL was “overwhelmingly acceptable and deserves the support of all Filipinos.”

In an opening speech similar to that given at the lower chamber last week, Tabora said it would be “unwise” to end the peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

READ: Filipinos back MILF peace talks—SWS

As of posting time, Davide was discussing the provisions of the bill that needed refinement. The former chief justice, who headed the council’s cluster on constitutionality and functions of the government, said the BBL was consistent with the Philippine Constitution.

He also clarified various misconceptions on the BBL, debunking the belief that the proposed law will create a new citizenry and an independent state. IDL
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