MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang on Monday expressed support for two Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leaders who are facing allegations that they are not Filipinos.
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad and peace panel head Mohagher Iqbal have denied in media reports that they are Malaysian citizens.
Coloma further explained that the issue on the MILF leaders' citizenship should not be a major deal because they have been widely recognized even during the term of past administrations.
"For the past 17 years, or dating back to the Ramos administration, Messrs. Murad and Iqbal have engaged the Philippine government in peace negotiations," Coloma said.
"Throughout this period, their citizenship has never been questioned. In fact, both houses of Congress have recognized their legitimate roles in the peace process by inviting them to appear in congressional hearings," he added.
Former interior secretary Rafael Alunan III alleged earlier that the Murad and Iqbal are using Malaysian passports when travelling.
Congress had been urged to look into the allegations before resuming its deliberations on the controversial Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
Davao City Rep. Karlo Alexei Nograles said if the allegations against the MILF leaders were true, Congress can be held criminally liable for committing acts of treason for selling out the country's sovereignty to foreigners
Philstar
