Muslim rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front has joined President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s call for the postponement of the elections in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which is also going to be the election that would test the automated election system mandated by law.

Lira Dalangin-Fernandez also reported on MILF spokesperson Eid Kabalu’s disclosure about his meeting with the President in Shariff Kabunsuan not to discuss the pending peace agreement but to oversee the implementation of a government project involving the clearing and dredging of the heavily silted Rio Grande de Mindanao in the province.

Arroyo’s recommendation came after lawmakers have indicated plans to file separate bills to push for the postponement of the ARMM polls.

Commission on Elections chairman Jose Melo, however, wanted the ARMM polls to push through, but also noted that “it’s up to Congress.”