Musings on the Federal State of Mindanaw in the Struggle for Power
By Menelito Mansueto The issue of Mindanao's secession has recently been on the airwaves since local politicians began talking about its possibility. The idea is not new, it has long germinated in the minds of some Muslim separatist rebels. Should the idea be taken with a grain of salt, like it was some joke coming from egotistical leaders? What are its implications? How likely will it occur? People in the center such as Metro Manila might consider the idea as ridiculous. We know for a fact how Manileños had long been undermining the capabilities of the provinces as if the provinces are entirely dependent on the affairs of the center. To recall, the EDSA revolution of 1986 happened in Manila but it has affected the political situation in Mindanao. One might be reminded of Col. Alexander Noble who led a military coup in October of 1990 and declared independence of the so-called “Federal Republic of Mindanao.” How will it affect Manileños if the separation happens? Mindanao contr