Maguindanao forms reconciliation task force

Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu, whose wife and sisters were killed in the "Maguindanao Massacre" in 2009, has issued an executive order creating a task force for reconciliation and unification in his province. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said Executive Order (EO) 3 issued in August creates the Maguindanao Task Force Reconciliation and Unification (MTFRU). "The leadership of the province expressed confidence that MTFRU can provide significant contributions to the realization of its flagship programs that focuses on good governance; unity, peace and stability; socio-economic progress; and delivery of basic services for the people," the MILF said on its website. In creating the task force, Mangudadatu emphasized the need to address peace, order, and development challenges in the province. The MTFRU is mandated to provide advice and recommendations to Mangudadatu and the Maguindanao Provincial Legislative Body headed by Vice-Governor Ismael Mastura. It will also coordinate efforts with institutions, authorities and organizations to promote peace and reconciliation. "Maguindanao has been marred recently by armed conflict between feuding families and clans, and political violence due to electoral exercises highlighted by the Maguindanao Massacre last November 23, 2009 that brutally claimed the lives of 57 people, including more than 33 journalists, and the wife and family members of Gov. Mangudadatu," the MILF said. Datu Santi Kadatuan and Datu Yamashita Mangacop are leading the task force, whose specific functions include: