MP Benito Clarifies Status of ...

MP Benito explained that the motion he supported was very clear — that the proposed measure be temporarily withdrawn from the Order of Business and referred back to the Joint Committee on Amendments and the Committee on Local Government for further deliberation.

“The decision to refer the bill back to the committees was guided by two critical factors,” Benito stated. “First, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has released new and updated census results, which must serve as the official basis for any redistricting process. Second, the configuration of the districts still needs careful and inclusive discussion.”

He also noted that the proposal has drawn protests from certain factions of the MNLF, and that a group from Lanao recently held a rally opposing the measure. “Shouldn’t those voices also be heard before pushing for passage?” Benito asked.

The lawmaker expressed dismay over how the issue is being turned personal by some parties, with social media being used to launch attacks against parliamentarians, allegedly through dummy and fake accounts.

“We are willing to do the work,” Benito emphasized. “As members of the committee, we are ready to conduct marathon meetings if needed — to revise and amend the bill, and to include the recommendations of various sectors and individuals, including those who joined the protest. If our goal is truly to serve the people in the affected communities, then this issue should not be taken personally.”

Benito also recalled the Supreme Court decision nullifying the proposed division of Datu Odin Sinsuat and Sultan Kudarat, despite it having been signed and supported by Chairman Al-Hadj Murad Ebrahim.

“In the end, the Supreme Court still ruled it unconstitutional. Why must our beloved Ameer be placed in such a position again?” Benito said.

He called on his fellow lawmakers to keep an open mind, focus on due process, and work together in the spirit of consultation and fairness.