February 5, 2025 – Pasay City
Sulu Governor Abdusakur M. Tan reiterated his firm stance on democratic representation and self-determination during the Senate Public Hearing on Bill No. 2915, held by the Senate Committee on Local Government. The proposed bill, titled “An Act Providing for the Inclusion of the Province of Sulu in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) as Provided for in Republic Act No. 11054, otherwise known as the Bangsamoro Organic Law, Setting the Plebiscite for this Purpose, and Appropriating Funds Thereof,” seeks to determine the potential reintegration of Sulu into BARMM.
Addressing the Senate panel as a resource person, Governor Tan emphasized that Sulu is open to participating in the plebiscite under the condition that all other BARMM provinces—Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur, and Maguindanao—also take part. He underscored the necessity of a unified plebiscite to ensure that the collective will of all stakeholders is equitably represented.
“Sulu’s participation in this process must be contingent upon the involvement of all BARMM provinces,” Tan asserted. “This guarantees that the decision is reflective of the true aspirations of the people, rather than being an isolated process affecting only one province.”
The governor’s position underscores Sulu’s commitment to fair representation and the democratic process. His remarks highlighted the importance of ensuring that any decision on reintegration is made with the collective voice of all concerned provinces.
Sulu’s active engagement in the Senate Public Hearing aligns with its advocacy for a transparent and just process. The province continues to amplify the voices of the Bangsa Sug and remains steadfast in securing a deliberation that reflects the genuine sentiments of its people.
The deliberations on Bill No. 2915 are expected to continue as stakeholders weigh the implications of the proposed reintegration, with the Senate Committee on Local Government gathering further insights to inform the legislative process.
