By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Apparently taking seriously the declaration of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to separate Mindanao from the Philippines, the National Security Council (NSC) has sternly warned that “resolute force” will be used to those who will attempt to dismember the Republic.

This developed as provincial governments of Maguindanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat and Camiguin, have expressed opposition to Duterte’s plan to establish a “separate and independent Mindanao.”

“Any attempt to secede any part of the Philippines will be met by the government with resolute force, as it remains steadfast in securing the sovereignty and integrity of the national territory,” National Security Adviser (NSA) Secretary Eduardo Año said in a statement.

He underscored the importance of national unity, security and stability, saying that calls for the division of the country “only serve to undermine our collective progress and prosperity.”

“The strength of our country lies in our unity and any attempt to sow division must be rejected by all sectors unequivocally,” Año said.

The NSC chief who had served as Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff and secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) under the Duterte administration, also warned that the national government “will not hesitate to use its authority and forces to quell and stop any and all attempts to dismember the Republic.”

On Friday (February 2), the four governors from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) said the region is proud to assert its identity as an integral part of the Republic of the Philippines.

Governors Yshmael Sali of Tawi-Tawi, Hajiman Hatama-Salliman of Basilan, Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. of Lanao del Sur, and Abdulraof Macacua of Maguindanao del Norte also vowed to focus on regional development and peace, emphasizing unity and progress within the national framework.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — With the growing awareness of the Filipinos on the incursions of Chinese vessels and harassment in the West Philippine Sea, China has resorted to the age-old tactic of divide and rule.

This was bared on Friday (01 Dec 2023) by National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año who claimed that China is creating “divisions” among Filipinos amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

“China’s multifaceted approach includes information operations that are specifically designed to create divisions within our nation, as we strive to unite the Filipino people in our stance on the West Philippine Sea issue,” Año said in a speech on Pag-asa Island.

The NSA visited Pag-asa Island to witness the inauguration of a newly constructed Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) building, a facility that will help effectively monitor activities near the island.

“It is critical for us to convey a powerful and united message that counters their falsehoods and eventually unites our fellow Filipinos in this important issue,” he stressed.

As he was delivering his speech, Año saw for himself at least 10 Chinese militia vessels, a China coast guard vessel, and a China Navy warship in the distance.

Año noted, however, that China’s bullying and harassment in the West Philippine Sea has brought about a “resurgence of patriotism” among Filipinos.

“Magkakaroon ng pagbabago sa mga unruly, bullying, aggressive behavior particularly ng China sa ating mga fishermen, sailor, Coast Guard na nagpa-patrol dito sa West Philippine sea. We are always prepared, we are not deterred and intimidated,” Año declared.

AFP Western Command chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos accompanied the NSA to the naval outpost on the island.

The Chinese Embassy has not yet sent its comment as of posting time on Friday (01 Dec 2023).

(AI/MNM)