LUNA, Apayao – Apayao Governor and Regional Development Council Chair Elias C. Bulut, Jr. expressed confidence that President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. will back the autonomy bill which shall allow Cordillerans to self-govern, “I am confident in President Marcos’ support for autonomy. I will ensure that the President certifies the bill. There is genuine hope for autonomy.”
The Governor’s statement was made during his opening speech at the 36th commemoration of Cordillera Day, held at BGVJr. Memorial Sports Center in Luna on July 15, 2023.
Although the President was unable to attend the event in Apayao due to inclement weather, RDC Bulut enlivened prospects for the realization of the region’s self-governance. He emphasized that once autonomy is granted, the entire region will greatly benefit from various development initiatives.
An autonomous region will liberate the area from reliance on the national government’s directives regarding projects and programs. Instead, the regional government will have the authority to govern its affairs, allowing local governments to identify and provide services tailored to the needs of their constituents.
Gov. Bulut’s conviction in the region’s pursuit of autonomy has ignited a renewed sense of hope among his people in Apayao, challenging the other provinces to unite and vote yes, just as Apayao voted yes for autonomy in time past.
Previous attempts to hold autonomy plebiscites were unsuccessful, with only Ifugao supporting self-rule in 1990, and Apayao alone showing support in 1997. By Jomela Dela Torre
