Rep. Gutierrez: Mindanao secession constitutionally infirm, logically unsound
1-RIDER Partylist Representative Rodge Gutierrez said Sunday calls from Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez and former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for a secession of Mindanao from the Philippine Republic contradicts the Constitution.
“The constitution is clear, Article I provides for our National Territory, we are one archipelago. There is no constitutional provision or any other legal means that would allow for Mindanao to unilaterally secede.” Gutierrez said.
Gutierrez, a member of the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments, lamented the calls for secession, explaining that it would be constitutionally infirm and logically unsound as there is no compelling reason for the secession of Mindanao.
“If we allow our nation to be divided, it would undermine our solidarity with each other as Filipinos. It would disrupt economic stability and hinder growth opportunities for both Mindanao and the rest of the country,” Gutierrez explained.
He also expressed surprise at the recent statements of Rep. Alvarez and former President Duterte.
“Sabi nila, napabayaan daw ang Mindanao. This is surprising, coming from a former President and former Speaker. Wasn’t Mindanao well represented during their terms?” Gutierrez said.
“Why would former President Duterte advocate for the dismemberment of the Republic that he himself led for six years? Huwag naman po tayong watak-watakin bilang isang bansa at mga Pilipino. We urge the former President and former Speaker to reconsider their stance on the matter.” Gutierrez said.
Gutierrez emphasized the need to retain national unity for the sake of economic and social development.
“We need a united nation, which is crucial for collective progress and development,” he added.
