NEWS




11September
MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, concurrent chair of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party. MindaNews photo by GG Bueno

UBJP: Bangsamoro identity transcends administrative boundaries

The United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) has issued a statement in response to the Supreme Court's decision to exclude the province of Sulu from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). While acknowledging the ruling, the UBJP emphasized that the Bangsamoro identity transcends administrative boundaries.
"As long as (the) UBJP remains the Government of the Day in BARMM," the UBJP stated, "we will continue to fight for the rights and aspirations of every Bangsamoro. We will ensure that Sulu remains connected with the region in spirit and in progress, despite now being outside its formal borders."

The UBJP highlighted the significant contributions of the people of Sulu, including UBJP leaders, throughout the Bangsamoro's journey, from the armed struggle to the peace negotiations, the historic BOL plebiscite, and the current BARMM governance. 

"The unity, courage, and resilience that have defined our shared journey will not be diminished," the party asserted.
 
However, the UBJP expressed concern about the practical implications of the ruling, stating that the people of Sulu will no longer directly benefit from programs and reforms implemented by the Bangsamoro Government.  This includes the improved educational systems within BARMM, including the strengthening of Madaris education.
 
The UBJP also noted that Sulu will now be governed by leaders less restrained by BARMM's anti-political dynasty policies, which the party considers crucial for good governance.
 
"The UBJP, as the political home of those who envisioned the Bangsamoro, remains steadfast in its commitment to the Bangsamoro people," the statement concluded.