
Yes, it is quite understandable that Sultan Bolkiah of Brunei’s state visit to the Philippines is for discussions over the ASEAN Summit where Brunei is the host country; but if the President is really concerned about the Sabah conflict, he will take the initiative to insert in the agenda the Sabah issue – even just to get the side of the Sultan of Brunei, since they originally owned the ancestral domain – and their royal ancestors were the ones bestowing it to the Sultanate of Sulu. What is he trying to prove for not lifting a finger over it – and instead just lifting an eyebrow? This is definitely a missed opportunity as per this news:
Sabah, sea row not on Noy-Bolkiah agenda
By: Aurea Calica
MANILA, Philippines – President Aquino is not likely to raise the issues of Sabah and the West Philippine Sea with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei during his two-day state visit, Malacañang said yesterday. Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda flatly said “no” when asked whether Sabah would be discussed with Bolkiah. http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/04/16/931186/sabah-sea-row-not-noy-bolkiah-agenda
We can surely feel the sentiments of Sultan Jamalul Kiram’s people – asking what kind of President do we have who will just give a cold shoulder when many Filipinos are already slaughtered in Sabah – plus the sufferings of the regular deportees who will remain homeless whether they are in Sabah or in the neighboring islands of the Philippines. Mr. President, where is your heart?