Should the Philippines recognize the Sultanate of Sulu?

Question

Should the Philippines recognize the Sultanate of Sulu? To what extent should the Philippines recognize the Sultanate of Sulu?

Answer 1

Yes. Historically, the Sultan of Sulu is recognized as the ruler of the archipelago. Even China recognized him prior to the coming of the Spaniards. Likewise, the Sultanate enjoy autonomy even during the Spaniard's rule. In fact, Britain even made a lease contract with the Sultanate as regards the lease/cessation of North Borneo.

The Philippine constitution do not recognize nobility. However, there should be an exception here. If the Sultanate is recognized, at least recognize it on its historical merits and the the respect it still have over its subjects.

Answer 2

If the Philippines government recognised the Sultanate of Sulu, what benefit would this give to the people of the island?

At the moment the island has a great deal of autonomy and very little interference by the government in Manila.

If the Philippines government did recognise the Sultanate of Sulu, would this encourage the island to push for full independence? And if it did, would the island seek to join any Muslim country or would its leaders decide to follow the suggestion of terror groups Abu Sayaff of creating a muslim state in South East Asia?

Would the country continue to benefit economically under the Protection of the Philiippines, or would it stop tourism and dedicate itself to Muslim teachings or muslim extremism.

The Philippines government would be worried that this island state could become a base for Abu Sayaff to launch terror attacks on near by Mindanao.

There are alot of ifs and buts about this question - has wide ranging economic, political and security implications for not only Philippines but also for South East Asia.