Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong (PPAB)

Simply put, Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong believes that splitting the municipality of Wao is a bad idea. 

"We strongly oppose the Bangsamoro Transition Authority's (BTA) proposed measure to divide the municipality of Wao, Lanao del Sur... We urge the [BTA] to reconsider its stance and prioritize the unity and prosperity of Wao and its residents," Adiong, a member of the "Young Guns" in the House of Representatives, said in a statement. 

"We stand in solidarity with my constituents in Wao, their leadership which has unequivocally rejected this measure, and with the townspeople who have bravely taken to the streets in protest against this divisive action," he said. 

Adiong noted that the Sangguniang’s Panglalawigan issued a resolution against this division, and that he supports it. 

The Mindanaoan hailed Wao as one of the most progressive parts of Lanao del Sur, and commended the people there and its leadership for its hard work and resilience. 

"I have seen with my own eyes the great strides this municipality has taken. Its growth and development are products of years of concerted effort and unity," he said. 

"However, the proposed division threatens to undermine all the progress made and the promising future ahead. Ito’y biglang paggiba ng pundasyon na matagal nang inilatag at pinatibay ng liderato at tao ng Wao. Malaki ang panganib na sa biglaang paghati na ito’y masayang lamang ang lahat ng pagod at pondo na inilaan para sa pag-unlad ng Bayan ng Wao," said Adiong. 

(This is a sudden destruction of the foundation that has long been laid done and fortified by the people and leadership of Wao. There is a big danger that the sudden split would waste all effort and funds that were pour into the municipality of Wao's development.) 

"Dividing Wao would not only fracture its community but also disrupt the socioeconomic fabric that sustains its progress," he underscored. 

"Wao's unity is not just a matter of administrative boundaries; it is a symbol of resilience and cooperation. Any attempt to divide it would only sow seeds of discord and hinder the shared aspirations of its people," he said. 

"Furthermore, the Marcos administration is an administration of Unity. This has been the clear message from the campaign and is a cementing throughline in all its projects," stressed Adiong. 

"It is imperative that actions taken by governing bodies reflect the principles of solidarity and inclusivity, which are essential for progress and development. We call upon all that love Wao and call it home to vote no if ever a plebiscite will be held regarding the division of Wao," he said.