MANILA – In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has upheld the validity of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) while declaring that the province of Sulu is not part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The ruling, issued on September 24, 2024, addresses key legal challenges and clarifies the status of Sulu within the framework of the BOL.
The decision came in response to several consolidated petitions, including those filed by the Province of Sulu, represented by its Governor Abdusakur A. Tan II, the Philippine Constitution Association (PHILCONSA), and Congressmen Abdullah D. Dimaporo and Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo. The petitions challenged the constitutionality of the BOL and its implementation by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
The Supreme Court’s ruling affirmed the constitutionality of the BOL, emphasizing its alignment with the Philippine Constitution and its role in promoting peace and development in Mindanao. However, the Court also ruled that Sulu, as represented by its local government, is not part of the BARMM, citing specific legal and procedural grounds.
The full text of the decision elaborates on the Court’s reasoning, highlighting the following key points:
- Constitutionality of the BOL: The Court upheld the BOL, stating that it is consistent with the Constitution and serves the purpose of addressing historical injustices and fostering peace in Mindanao.
- Exclusion of Sulu from BARMM: The Court found that the inclusion of Sulu in the BARMM was not in accordance with the procedural requirements set forth in the BOL and related laws. As a result, Sulu will remain outside the jurisdiction of the BARMM.
- Role of COMELEC: The decision also addressed the role of the COMELEC in the plebiscite and implementation of the BOL, affirming that the electoral body acted within its mandate and authority.
The ruling has significant implications for the governance and administrative structure of Mindanao. It reinforces the legal foundation of the BARMM while respecting the autonomy and decisions of local government units like Sulu.
PBGEN Ricardo G. Layug, Jr., Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10), praised the coordinated efforts that led to this successful surrender. “This highlights the ongoing efforts of the government forces to secure peace not only in Lanao del Norte but also across Region 10. PRO10, along with other agencies, remains committed to ensuring that former rebels receive the necessary support as they reintegrate into society, while we continue to strengthen our fight against terrorism,” he said.
The decision is expected to pave the way for further developments in the peace process and the continued implementation of the BOL, with the aim of achieving lasting peace and prosperity in Mindanao.
DOWNLOAD THE FULL TEXT HERE: https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/242255-243246-243693-province-of-sulu-duly-represented-by-its-governor-abdusakur-a-tan-ii-vs-hon-salvador-c-medialdea-et-al-philippine-constitution-association-philconsa-vs-senate-of-the-philippines-e/
