RDC pushes Cordillera autonomy; regional reps file bill in Congress

By Redjie Melvic Cawis

BAGUIO CITY – Top Cordillera officials have launched moves to make the Cordillera autonomous after two organic acts for this purpose were rejected by regional constituents. 

The Regional Development Council has launched information and education drive to male constituents more aware of the benefits of making the Cordillera autonomous.

This, as all Cordillera Lower House representatives filed House Bill 5343 or an Act Creating the Autonomous Region of the Cordillera (ARC).

Reps. Teddy Brawner Baguilat Jr. of Ifugao, Joseph Sto. Niño B. Bernos of Abra, Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang, Apayao; Ronald M. Cosalan, Benguet; Maximo B. Dalog, Mountain Province; Mark O. Go, Baguio City and Allen Jesse C. Mangaoang of Kalinga filed the bill in Congress last March 20.

Cordillera congressmen said autonomy is the most effective option for the region to develop and benefit from management and use of its natural resources, the solons stated.

The rationale of the proposed measure is to establish a political entity, provide its basic structure of government in recognition of the cause of the Cordillerans and to secure their identity and posterity allowing for meaningful self-governance.

“Cordillera autonomy will bring to national attention the benefit of accepting and promoting cultural diversity through the formulation of multi-cultural policies for Cordillerans,” the lawmakers said.

The revived autonomy bill, once enacted into law, shall be subject to the ratification of the people in a plebiscite covering the provinces of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province and the chartered City of Baguio. Provinces or cities voting unfavorably for the Organic Act shall remain within their current region.

“It is a manifestation that regional autonomy is no longer just a lifelong dream but a vigorous desire,” the solons said.

The lawmakers are optimistic President Rodrigo Duterte will support the creation of a Cordillera autonomous region with recent statements of the President and through Peace process Secretary Jesus Dureza who gave assurance of support of the Duterte administration.

Mangaoang said in an interview Cordillera representatives are optimistic the new House Bill on Cordillera Autonomy will be declared priority bill.

Go said Cordillera lawmakers agreed there is a need for Cordillera autonomy to hasten progress and development of the region.