Open to peace talks – Palace; Support BBL, too – Duterte

THE government has reiterated that it is open to the resumption of peace talks with Communist rebels provided some conditions are met.

Put an end to hostilities, stop extortion, and lay down arms first, Malacanang said.

*** President Duterte has likewise asked for public support for Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) being finalized in Congress to end decadesold separatism in Mindanao.

“I want a result of this by the end of the year,” he said.

*** Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said there should be a conducive “enabling environment” for the revival of the peace talks with the Communist rebel group, amid a congressional resolution calling for the resumption of the stalled peace talks .

“We reiterate that there must be an enabling environment that must be present for the desired resumption of peace talks such as genuine sincerity on the part of the CPP-NPA-NDF,” Roque said. *** “They must cease their hostilities against innocent civilians and government forces; end their extortion activities, violent streaks, and wanton killings; lay down their arms and return to the fold of law and restart to live normal lives,” Roque added.

No to “spoilers of peace,” he said.

*** “Right from the very beginning of his term, the President’s position has always been clear and consistent: He remains committed to peace,” Roque pointed out.

“However, we find it unfortunate that the Communists have become spoilers of peace because of their penchant for double talk and treachery. Their motives are not for attaining sustainable peace but rather to push for their greater control and influence,” he added.

*** More than 60 lawmakers have signed House Resolution No. 1803 urging the President to revive the peace negotiations with the Communist rebel group to resolve the decades-old conflict.

There should also be agreements on social, economic, and political reforms to lay the groundwork for a just and lasting peace, they said.

*** “Even without the peace talks, the government’s efforts at forging peace with Communist rebels have been gaining ground, as evidenced by the surrender of NPA fighters. Rest assured that the government will exhaust any and all means to achieve lasting peace toward unity and progress,” he added.

Assurance accepted. Good results expected.

*** The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it will always follow the policy direction of the political leadership, adding “We take cognizance of the need to have a just and lasting peace in our country and the AFP supports every effort to forge peace in our country.”

Yes, remain as protector of the people and the state.

*** Meanwhile, President Duterte appealed for unity as Congress deliberates on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

Let’s end the decades-long Mindanao separatism, he said.

*** Addressing troops and supporters, Duterte said the people of Sulu have been left behind, ravaged by poverty and illiteracy.

“Sulu since time immemorial, it has suffered violence every now and then. So if there is a way that I can help you, help me make it through the night sa presidency ko,” the President added.

*** “I have no other wish than to give peace to the Moros in Mindanao,” Duterte said.

Yes to peace in Mindanao. Yes to peace in the entire country.