The Moro Islamic Liberation Front should lay down arms, sever ties with terror groups and abide by their commitments during the peace process.
These are the conditions given by Senator Alan Cayetano, in a privilege speech Wednesday. Given these, he called for a continuation of peace talks following a one year probationary period for the MILF to comply to these conditions.
“Yes, we need and want peace. But PEACE on paper will remain just a piece of paper if we do not DISARM,” said Cayetano.
Cayetano cautioned that while government continues to push for peace in Mindanao, he has received reports the MILF is building up arms and recruiting new members. He also showed documents supporting claims the MILF knowingly harboured international terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan.
“To the MILF….Put down your arms and prove to us that you have truly turned your back on terrorism,” Cayetano said. “Dismantle your weapons factories, stop building new camps and allow for a comprehensive inspection by a neutral international team. Finally, surrender or join government forces in hunting down Usman and Umbra Kato and all terrorists in your areas.”
At the same time, Cayetano reminded government that even though the BBL is important, the attainment of justice for the police Special Action Force commandos killed in Mamasapano and the preservation of the nation’s integrity are paramount.
“We must focus not on the BBL, but on building a Just, Inclusive and Lasting Peace,” Cayetano said.
Cayetano earlier withdrew his support of the BBL, following the Mamasapano massacre, and offered the first alternative to a rushed passage of the flawed BBL. ###
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