Philippines: Muslim leaders call for unity

MANILA, Philippines (Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) Sunday urged Muslim leaders to unite as NCMF officials expressed concern over the divisive effect of the jockeying for caretaker positions for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).Speaking on behalf of the commission’s leadership that includes eight other commissioners, NCMF Secretary Bai Omera D. Dianalan Lucman noted that the aim of Republic Act 10153 is for the administration to implement well-meaning reforms and policies in the poverty-stricken region.She said the Supreme Court in its temporary restraining order (TRO) issued on Sept. 13 stopping the implementation of RA 10153 only exercises its constitutional mandate to review laws that Congress passed, particularly when a particular legislation is being challenged by some sectors.The TRO prompted the NCMF leadership to appeal to Muslims, particularly their leaders, to be one as the issue of synchronized elections in 2013 and the appointment of officers-in-charge (OICs) for ARMM has divided the Muslim community.RA 10153 postponed for 2013 the Aug. 8 regional election and gave President Benigno S. Aquino III the power to appoint interim ARMM officials until new officials are elected./129