But we feel it is our right to demand for independence. The only way to solve the problem permanently is to give the Bangsa Moro people independence. Make them free. The East Timor formula is asking the East Timorese whether they wanted independence or autonomy. So they voted for independence.
Independence can be the subject of negotiations.
If the Philippine government can show us something that can address the problem of our people, then we do not close our doors. I have emphasized this to many government officials coming here. If there is a formula submitted by the Philippine government and that formula is acceptable to us because it addresses the problem of the Bangsa Moro people, then we will consider signing a temporary agreement. By temporary, we mean we want to see it first. We do not want a trap.