Gov't stands by peace proposal, rejects MILF rejection

The government is standing by the peace proposal rejected by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front during the last round of their formal exploratory talks in Malaysia this week. Chief government negotiator Marvic Leonen maintained the government’s latest proposal is “the most principled, realistic and practical approach" to resolving the armed conflict. “The government rejects the MILF’s rejection of our proposal," he said in a news release posted on the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process website Friday. Earlier, the government submitted a “3 for 1" proposal involving massive economic development, political settlement with the MILF, and; cultural-historical acknowledgment. Leonen said this includes a “massive program of social services and economic development" to break the cycle of poverty in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. “In this regard, the government has encouraged and is prepared to work with the MILF in conflict-affected areas in undertaking these much needed social services. Their partnership will contribute immensely to the growth of the area as well as build confidence and trust between the parties," he said. Also, he said the “3 for 1" proposal involves a political settlement or peace agreement with the MILF by which a Bangsamoro Commission will be created. The commission will have representatives from the government, the MILF and stakeholders in the Mindanao peace process, and will supervise the implementation of the peace pact. Likewise incorporated in the government proposal is the cultural-historical acknowledgment that “corrects historical narratives and fosters appreciation of different cultures borne out of the struggles of all Filipinos including those of Bangsamoro identity." “The MILF now has to decide whether it wants to move forward to achieve a negotiated settlement to the Bangsamoro problem... In negotiations, it should be expected that the other party opens with ideas different from yours," Leonen said. Negotiators from the government and the MILF met Aug. 22 to 24 in Kuala Lumpur, weeks after President Benigno Aquino III personally met with MILF officials in Japan Aug. 4 to push the peace process forward. “The GPH [Government of the Philippines] proposal reflects the sincere desire of the President for permanent peace in Mindanao obtained in a fair, just and transparent manner. We await a reciprocal show of sincerity, openness and commitment from the MILF to move the peace process forward," Leonen said. — LBG, GMA News