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The City Council of Basilan City has declared political analyst Richard Heydarian persona non grata for his controversial remark comparing Mindanao’s Human Development Index (HDI) to sub-Saharan Africa. Heydarian said that the HDI in Luzon is comparable to that of Southern Europe while that of Mindanao is comparable to sub-Saharan African level, sparking widespread criticism. The City Council of Isabela City passed a resolution declaring Heydarian persona non grata for “derogatory and disparaging” remarks, which were deemed an insult to the region and its inhabitants. Councilor Abner Rodriguez said the declaration is a “symbolic gesture” expressing the council’s strong disapproval of Heydarian’s remarks and demonstrates a “profound lack of understanding and respect” for the people of Mindanao.
