Muslim local officials in Mindanao lauded Saturday the
statement of Pope Francis on the government peace process in southern Philippines
The Argentinian Pontiff who is on his five-day visit in the
Philippines, acknowledged the ongoing peace process between the government and
the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in a speech inside Malacanang Palace
on Friday.
"In a particular way, I express my trust that the
progress made in bringing peace to the south of the country will result in just
solutions, in accord with the nation’s founding principles and respectful of
the inalienable rights of all, including the indigenous peoples and religious
minorities," Pope Francis said.
A staunch supporter of the GPH-MILF peace process, Regional
Governor Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM),
considered the Papal comments as a recognition and a "vote of
confidence" to the efforts of the government and the MILF to find lasting
solution to the Mindanao problem.
Hataman said the recognition came from no less than the
highest leader of the Catholic Church who is known for his advocacy in
resolving conflicts around the globe.
"I note with pleasure that last March, an agreement
was signed to end long years of tension in the Philippines
In a statement, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process
Teresita Quintos-Deles said the Pope's comment on the peace process was a
blessing.
“The Pope’s statement regarding the peace process is a both
a blessing and a tacit indication that the Mindanao
peace process is indeed a good showcase of multinational peace-building
initiative,” she said.
Deles said she was confident the Pope’s pastoral stand on
the Mindanao peace process will inspire
stakeholders to work harder for progress and tranquility in the south.
Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu described the Pope's
comments as "kind words" for the people of Mindanao .
He said he hoped it will motivate the local Muslim,
Christian and Lumad communities to continue living harmoniously regardless of
what religion they practice.
“We must also draw inspiration from the Pope’s examples of
religious tolerance and utmost respect for other faiths,” Mangudadatu told
reporters in a phone interview.
Mangudadatu said the recognition by Pope Francis of the
peace efforts of President Benigno Aquino III and the local communities will
help the attainment of genuine peace in the island as well as the country.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/archives/news/regions?p=2
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