DND: We’re ready for Misuari, MNLF

From Malaya (Aug 20): DND: We’re ready for Misuari, MNLF

DEFENSE Secretary Voltaire Gazmin yesterday said the defense and military establishment is preparing for the possible effects of former Moro National Liberation Front chairman Nur Misuari’s declaration of independence of his “Bangsamoro Republik” (Mindanao, Palawan and Sabah).

But Gazmin also appealed to Misuari to carry out his fight in a peaceful manner.

“Our (appeal) is to do it calmly, in a peaceful way so that those who have nothing to do with this can be spared,” Gazmin told reporters in an ambush interview in Camp Aguinaldo.

He said the defense department is adopting measures in light of Misuari’s declaration of independence.

“We are preparing for that. Let’s see what we can do. Right now, communications between the Philippine Marines, (Sulu) Gov. (Abdu)Sakur Tan and the MNLF is continuing,” said Gazmin.

Asked if government considers Misuari’s move as a threat, he said: “Two ways. It can be yes, it can be no. It depends on how he carries it out.”

Misuari declared the independence of Mindanao, along with Palawan and Sabah, on the belief that the peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front is sidelining the 1996 peace agreement that the MNLF signed with the government.

Pressed if he is hopeful that Misuari would pursue his advocacy in a peaceful manner, Gazmin said: “That’s speculation.”

The MNLF has forces in various parts of Mindanao but Misuari’s loyal followers are based mostly in Sulu.

On reports that other MNLF members are due to announce in Cotabato City their support for Misuari, Gazmin said: “I will check that. I have not received such report.”

“What I know is Jolo (Misuari declaration) but Cotabato, I will check....We will verify that,” he added.

http://malaya.com.ph/index.php/news/nation/38908-dnd-were-ready-for-misuari-mnlf