As a Gesture and Symbol of Oneness of Nation
We, the members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Sulu, united in our unwavering pursuit of lasting peace, justice, and sustainable development for our people, hereby issue this solemn Declaration. We reaffirm our unshakeable commitment to the return of the Province of Sulu to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). This profound call is rooted in our deep conviction that the inclusion of Sulu in BARMM is not merely an administrative adjustment, but an indispensable prerequisite for the full and faithful implementation of all signed peace agreements and the ultimate realization of our people’s long-cherished aspirations for a better, more prosperous, and self-determined life.
Non-Inclusion of Sulu in BARMM: A Direct Breach of Peace Agreements
The ongoing non-inclusion of Sulu in BARMM constitutes a grave and undeniable breach of the sacred peace agreements. We declare, with utmost certainty that we cannot afford to let this deeply detrimental situation persist.
The Return of Sulu to BARMM: The Only Pathway to Lasting Peace and Genuine Progress
We firmly believe and unequivocally declare that the immediate return of Sulu to BARMM is not just desirable, but absolutely essential to achieving lasting peace, fostering genuine unity, and unlocking unprecedented progress across our entire region. By re-joining BARMM, we can collectively::
- Guarantee that our inherent rights and vital interests are fully protected, vigorously promoted, and comprehensively addressed within the framework of self-governance.
- Enable us to more effectively address common security concerns, such as terrorism and piracy, through coordinated efforts, thereby fostering a safer, more secure, and stable environment for all our people to thrive.
Moreover, the arbitrary and unjust apportionment of Sulu’s electoral districts to other provinces is a flagrant violation of the fundamental principles of fairness, equity, and legitimate representation. This egregious move not only unjustly marginalizes the people of Sulu but also fundamentally undermines the integrity and credibility of the electoral process within the BARMM. It is a clear and unacceptable attempt to diminish the political voice and influence of the people of Sulu in the crucial affairs of the region, which we declare as both unacceptable and profoundly unjust.
The MNLF views this ongoing exclusion and arbitrary redistricting as a deliberate and deeply troubling part of a larger, persistent pattern of historical injustices perpetuated against the Moro people. It serves as a stark and painful reminder of the systemic marginalization and pervasive exclusion that have historically fueled and sustained the Moro struggle for liberation and genuine self-determination.
Furthermore, the arbitrary apportionment of its electoral districts to other provinces must be immediately revoked to ensure that the people of Sulu are represented fairly, justly, and proportionately in the governance of the BARMM.
Our Unwavering Commitment
As members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Sulu, we solemnly commit to the following principles in our pursuit of this vital objective:
a. Peaceful Means: We will pursue our goal through strictly peaceful and legitimate means, encompassing constructive dialogue, principled negotiation, and effective advocacy, eschewing any form of violence.
b. Inclusive Process: We commit to an inclusive and participatory process, engaging openly and respectfully with all stakeholders, including vibrant civil society organizations, revered traditional leaders, and all local government units, ensuring every voice is heard.
c. Transparency and Accountability: We will ensure absolute transparency in all our actions and decisions, and we hold ourselves fully accountable for the faithful fulfilment of our commitments to the people and the Bangsamoro cause.
We declare our willingness to work tirelessly, diligently, and with unwavering resolve to make this profound vision a tangible reality. We call upon all stakeholders to join us in this collective effort and wholeheartedly support our quest for a truly better future for the proud people of Sulu.
Long live the people of Sulu! Long live the Bangsamoro!