Manila, Philippines – The Supreme Court of the Philippines has upheld the validity of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) while simultaneously declaring that the province of Sulu is not part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). This landmark decision, stemming from a petition filed by Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan, a key figure in the BARMM Grand Coalition (BGC), has significant implications for the region’s legal, political, administrative, and security landscape, especially with the 2025 BARMM Parliamentary elections on the horizon.
In response to this ruling, Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Deputy Speaker Atty. Laisa Alamina issued a statement highlighting the multifaceted impact of the decision. She emphasized that the ruling marks a pivotal moment in the Bangsamoro people’s long-standing struggle for self-determination.
“The Supreme Court’s decision is a critical juncture in our history,” Alamina stated. “It underscores the complex sociohistorical and political context of our peace agreements, including the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). These documents reflect our persistent aspirations for autonomy, recognition, and peace.”
Alamina pointed out that the immediate executory nature of the decision presents numerous challenges, particularly concerning the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, the Parliamentary Redistricting Law, and the upcoming 2025 BARMM Parliamentary elections. “We need sensitive, efficient, and strategic thinking to transition Sulu from being part of BARMM to potentially becoming part of the Zamboanga Peninsula administrative region,” she noted.
The Deputy Speaker also stressed the importance of examining the administrative issues related to Sulu’s severance from BARMM in light of the Bangsamoro Administrative Code, Civil Service Code, and other relevant legislation. “We must consider the existing BARMM agencies in Sulu and the ongoing and planned programs for the people of Sulu,” she added.
Alamina concluded her statement by calling for continued dialogue, inclusivity, and strategic thinking among political leaders and peace advocates. “This decision reminds us of the importance of staying committed to the peace process. Our true measure of success lies not in legal victories or political power but in achieving lasting peace, prosperity, and dignity for the Bangsamoro people.”
As stakeholders await the full publication of the Supreme Court’s decision, Alamina urged everyone to remain calm and open-minded. “We face many complicated questions that require thoughtful answers. It is essential that we navigate these challenges together, with a focus on the greater good of our people.”
The Supreme Court’s ruling is expected to have far-reaching effects on the political and administrative landscape of the Bangsamoro region, and its implications will be closely watched in the coming months.
