MANILA, March 28, 2011—A Catholic bishop is disappointed over President Aquino’s call to defer elections in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
The ARMM polls are set on August 11 but the administration’s allies in Congress are determined to have it postponed.
Isabela Bishop Martin Jumoad maintains that the elections should push through as scheduled to solve the present problems in Basilan.
“First and foremost I am frustrated (with the planned postponement of the ARMM elections),†Jumoad said Monday over Catholic Church-run Radyo Veritas.
But the Mindanao prelate said he will respect the decision of the government and will remain hopeful that it will bring good to their region.
“They have the power of authority so let’s hope for best because that’s what the President has promised that he will clean the government,†he said.
“I hope it will materialize… I am a law abiding citizen and I respect the decision of the government,†Jumoad added.
On March 22, the House of Representatives approved a bill seeking to synchronize the ARMM polls with the May 2013 midterm elections.
By a vote, 191-47-2, the lawmakers approved on second and third reading House Bill 4146, the measure certified as urgent by Aquino.
The measure also gives the President power to appoint officers-in-charge in the ARMM government until new officials are elected.
Aquino lauded the approval of the bill by the Lower House and hoped the Senate would do the same. (CBCPNews)
