Manila, Philippines, May 31, 2025 – With the Bangsamoro region at a critical turning point in its democratic transition, Member of Parliament Abdulbasit R. Benito joined fellow Bangsamoro lawmakers in a consultation convened by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP) yesterday, May 30, at New World Hotel, Manila. The high-level meeting gathered selected Members of the Bangsamoro Parliament to discuss legislative progress, upcoming electoral preparations, and mechanisms for sustained national-local collaboration.
The discussion focused on a comprehensive review of priority legislations, updates on the timeline for the reapportionment of the seven (7) legislative districts of Sulu, and the creation of a formal coordination mechanism between OSAP and the Bangsamoro interim government, particularly involving Members of Parliament (MPs).
MP Abdulbasit R. Benito, known for his proactive legislative participation, expressed support for the meeting’s objectives. “This is not just about ticking boxes in a legislative agenda—it’s about fulfilling our shared commitment to deliver effective governance and lasting peace for our people,” he said.
To enhance coordination, Deputy Floor Leaders were designated as geographically assigned focal persons, a move seen as vital in bridging the national government and local leadership:
MP Omar Yasser Sema – Cotabato City
MP Engr. Bai Intan Adil-Ampatuan – Maguindanao del Sur
MP Atty. Ishak Mastura – Maguindanao del Norte
MP Atty. Amenodin U. Sumagayan – Lanao del Sur
MP Atty. Laisa Alamia – Basilan
MP John Anthony Lim – Tawi-Tawi
MP Mohammad Kellie Antao – Special Geographic Areas (SGA)
MP Atty. Kitem Kadatuan Jr. – for the Office of the Chief Minister
Among the most urgent topics tackled was the Bill on the Reapportionment of the Seven Legislative Districts in Sulu—a key legislative requirement to ensure the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections proceed as scheduled on October 13, 2025. The MPs present committed to passing the bill by July, a timeline that underscores the urgency and importance of inclusive representation for the Sulu constituency.
MP Benito reiterated the importance of these efforts: “We must ensure that every voice in the Bangsamoro is fairly represented. This reapportionment bill is not just legislation—it is a promise of equity, inclusion, and democratic integrity.”
The consultation closed with a collective resolve to institutionalize regular coordination between the OSAP and the BTA, reinforcing the message that the national government remains a partner in the success of the Bangsamoro transition.
As the clock ticks toward the 2025 elections, MP Abdulbasit R. Benito and his colleagues remain steadfast in their commitment to laying down strong legislative and governance foundations—anchored in peace, justice, and self-determination for the Bangsamoro people.
May 31, 2025 - BY Admin