WITH the cooperation between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front’s (MNLF), the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (Opapp) said that the peace negotiation in Mindanao is back on track.
The Opapp, in a statement emailed to the media on Saturday, said that the positive response of the MNLF on the invitation to participate the Bangsamoro peace process and the signing of the executive order that will create inclusive Bangsamoro Transition Commission on Nov. 7 are significant steps closer to comprehensive and inclusive resolution of the decade-long armed conflict in Mindanao.
"The peace process in Mindanao is on track with both the MILF and the MNLF on board for more inclusive resolution to the conflict. They are willing to sit at the peace table and work together with the government to address the historical injustices committed against the Moro people. This is an unprecedented and historic development," the Opapp said.
MNLF chairman Nur Misuari has declared that only President Rodrigo Duterte can solve the long-standing problem of peace and order in Mindanao. This trust in the president’s leadership from an MNLF founder is a key ingredient in the president’s roadmap that will lead us to peace, the Opapp said.
The Opapp added that Duterte’s determination “to end war once and for all” during his term has led him to explore creative ways to get the key actors to the peace table. It added that he is committed to release the unprecedented number of detained leaders of the National Democratic Front (NDF) so they can participate in the peace negotiations.
"In the same manner, the president caused the suspension of hearings and enforcement of warrants of arrest against Misuari so he can also participate in the Bangsamoro peace process. The temporary release of the NDF leaders and the MNLF chairman is in pursuit of a larger vision of peace," the Opapp said.
As justice is a key element in peace building, justice and healing will be integral parts of the peace process. The concern for justice related to the Zamboanga incidents in 2013 as well as other incidents identified by the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission will be dealt with in a comprehensive program.
The Opapp said that public participation is also important in the process through the formation of various Peace Tables in the different sectors and communities following President Duterte's desire for inclusiveness, transparency, and convergence.