JOLO, Sulu – A Muslim legislator is urging the new leadership to address the Mindanao problem squarely and sincerely and must be a priority of the Aquino administration in national policy formulation and program implementation.

Rep. Habib Tupay T. Loong (1st District, Sulu) urged President Aquino to initiate measures to mitigate the recurring armed hostilities in Mindanao within the first year of his term.

Loong said the Mindanao conflict can be considered as a threat both to the internal and external security of the nation.

“The Bangsamoro struggle for self-determination is already a struggle of generations, and up to now, there is no clear indication yet as to when it will end. We hope that the new administration reconsiders its priority and address the decade-long problem in Mindanao,” he said.

Loong emphasized that “the Philippine government needs to become fairer economically, more accountable politically, more responsible socially, more sensitive culturally, and provides equal opportunity to all, they be Lumad, Bangsamoro or Christian.”

“Ultimately, this will facilitate resolving the Mindanao conflict not only by structurally addressing its root causes through the peace negotiations, but also by healing the deep social, cultural and religious gaps or misunderstandings,” Loong said

Meanwhile, Loong asked his fellow Muslim brothers to stop treating themselves as minorities since this does not contribute to the resolution of the Mindanao conflict.

“Instead, it increases the gaps and misconceptions among the people in Mindanao. We should adhere to the principle of co-existence so we may be able to live harmoniously with others,” Loong said.