Duterte backs extension of Bangsamoro transition —Ebrahim

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim on Friday said President Rodrigo Duterte supported the possible extension of the Bangsamoro transition.

In a virtual presser, Ebrahim said the President had emphasized to him that the present administration fully supported the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

Furthermore, Duterte acknowledged that the initial three-year transition period was too short.

"The moment that we mentioned about the extension, he already responded straightforward. He said 'I know the three years period for transition is very short and I know that you want it to be extended,' and 'I support,' he said, '100% the extension of your transition period,'" Ebrahim said.

"The President expressed his full satisfaction of the functioning of the BTA. He clearly pronounced that he is very thankful and he assured the support of his administration to the transition authority in order to accomplish its task and he is hoping that whatever is best for the transition authority, he will be supporting it," he added.

Ebrahim said BARMM officials were engaged with Congress over the matter.

Five proposed measures were filed before the lower house of Congress regarding the extension of the Bangsamoro transition.

Ebrahim also said BARMM residents welcomed the possibility of the extension. Asked if they were consulted, he said surveys were taken regarding this.

"They really find that the time is very short," Ebrahim said.

Duterte earlier said his administration would continue advancing the welfare of the region. — DVM, GMA News