Press Release
August 1, 2008

KIKO ASSAILS LACK OF CONSULTATION ON ARMM EXPANSION

Senate Majority Leader and Independent Senator Kiko Pangilinan today assailed the lack of consultation on the government peace talk that will give away at least 750 barangays to the expansion of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM )

North Cotabato Governor Jesus Sacdalan, Vice Governor Manny Pinol, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members and the Mayors of the different towns of North Cotabato have contested the said move that will put their province under Moro Islamic Liberation Front domain.

"The absence of consultation is totally unacceptable. This must be addressed immediately. We urge the national government to ensure that all sides in the controversy are given the opportunity to be heard before any commitments are made", Kiko said.

The issue is intensified by the current debates on the postponement of the ARMM elections. PGMA has certified urgent a bill seeking the postponement of polls in the said area from August 11 this year to May 2010 to allegedly help push forward the peace talks in Mindanao.

"It is necessary for basic fair play that consultations with all affected parties are undertaken. If we act quickly I believe there is still time to correct this grievous error," Kiko ended.

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