Though some militants who fought in Marawi were former MILF members, the group has denounced radical Islam and has a good relationship with Duterte.
Mindanao, an island the size of South Korea, is the Philippines’ most underdeveloped region, but is home to most of its nickel mines and biggest fruit farms, besides vast tracts of land the government wants to convert into palm oil plantations.
But its notorious clan wars, lawlessness and conflicts with Muslim and communist rebel groups have kept investors at bay.
Once signed into law, Bangsamoro will have its own executive, legislature and fiscal powers, but the central government will continue to oversee defense, security, foreign affairs, and monetary policy.
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