Framework Agreement forum eyed

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Nov 13): Framework Agreement forum eyed

THE Provincial Government of Basilan in partnership with the cross-section of the society and non-government organizations (NGOs) agreed to organize a forum on the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Basilan provincial administrator Tahira Ismael said the forum is aimed to correct growing misconceptions about the framework agreement signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “Our people have a wrong understanding of the agreement,” Ismael said fearing it might lead to further division among Basileños if not corrected. Akbar Municipal Mayor Alih Sali said he received information the MILFs are already recruiting young people and luring them to join the group in view of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Sali said the MILFs are allegedly telling them they could apply for integration into the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) if they join the group. Ismael said this is the reason why there is a need to organize a forum where members of the government and MILF panels could enlighten the people in Basilan province. Otherwise, Ismael said, it will be difficult for them to understand the framework agreement “if we talk by ourselves.” Tentatively, they intend to hold the forum on the framework agreement on the 24th of this month, according to Ismael, who is the former mayor of Lantawan town.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/11/13/framework-agreement-forum-eyed-253016