CMPAG vows to win peace

From the Visyan Daily Star (Apr 5): CMPAG vows to win peace

Members of the Church-Military and Police Advisory Group yesterday signed a communiqué that aims to win the peace in Negros, promote a secure and fair election, and vigorously support the effective implementation of agrarian reform.

The CMPAG-Negros said in its communiqué that in connection with the national and local elections, they will promote a secure and fair election, and intelligent selection of leaders who can provide good governance needed in these crucial times, since the outcome of this election will have an impact to the future of Negrenses and the entire country.

To win the peace in Negros, CMPAG said the military and police will continue to work with other stakeholders in addressing security threats and challenges to address the social issues that feed the armed conflict.

To the attain these objectives, CMPAG members, said in the communiqué that they dedicate themselves for people to enjoy a life without fear, a choice without being forced, and an act that promotes freedom, justice and equality for all.

The signatories included Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra, Msgr. Patrick Daniel Parcon of the Diocese of San Carlos, Msgr. Gamaliel Tulabing, Kabankalan Bishop Patricio Buzon, Col. Oscar Lactao, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, Col. Francisco Patrimonio, 302nd Infantry Brigade commander, and Senior Supt. Celestino Guara, caretaker of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office.

The CMAG - Negros was formed on March 4,2008 and was represented by four dioceses of Negros island and Philippine Army units.

The four Catholic dioceses and the AFP vowed to foster a harmonious relationship and cooperation by maintaining an open line of communication and serve as one, unified body in resolving issues or conflicts within Negros island.

The signing of communiqué yesterday was witnessed by AFP chief of staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, Navy Vice- Admiral Edgar Abogado, Major General Jose Mabanta, 3rd Infantry Division commander, Chief Supt. Agrimero Cruz, regional police director of Western Visayas.

Navarra said that the relationship of the military and Church as good, and that there appears to be visible cooperation among them. However, he suggested that the relationship should go deeper in terms of honesty and frankness in the discussions, in facing and addressing problems of peace and order.

Navarra also commended the military and church participants in the advisory group for to the pursuit of the CMPAG goals.

With this, Bautista said the pursuit of peace in Negros may no longer elusive.

 http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/April/05/topstory4.htm