PNP commits support to transformation program for MNLF combatants

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 9, 2021): PNP commits support to transformation program for MNLF combatants

In a bid to strengthen the Government of the Philippines -Moro National Liberation Front (GPH-MNLF) peace process, the GPH Coordinating Committee (GPH CC) discussed with the Philippine National Police (PNP) the peacebuilding interventions being carried out by the committee, as it also sought the support of the police department.

During the meeting on Tuesday, July 6, between Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs and Chair of the GPH CC for the MNLF-Sema Group, Undersecretary Arthur Tabaquero and PGen. Guillermo Eleazar, the former underscored the importance of utilizing the whole-of-government approach in promoting peace and conducting socio-economic interventions in conflict-affected areas.

“No matter what circumstance, the government’s vision of peace could be realized through collaborative effort. The GPH CC believes that by working hand-in-hand with the security sector -- PNP and AFP -- we could reach the peace and development agenda of the national government to these communities and transform them into more capable and productive citizenry,” said Tabaquero.

Meanwhile, Eleazar expressed the PNP’s commitment to support the endeavors of the GPH-MNLF peace process.

“Napakaganda nga Sir na nasimulan na itong peace process. Napakagandang pakinggan ng Final Peace Agreement, but still it has to be realized. Rest assured that the PNP will be here to always work with you,” said Eleazar.

Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) MNLF Concerns Department Director Jana Gallardo briefed the PNP officials on developments in the GPH-MNLF peace process.



The discussion also highlighted various social and development programs as well as enhancement of peace and security in MNLF communities.

Likewise, Defense Undersecretary Cesar Yano shared the need for the country’s security sector to work together in promoting peace and development in all areas particularly in Mindanao.

“Tayo, AFP and PNP, we should be able to contribute para ang areas natin ay maging productive. Because if there is no certainty in security, walang investments and investments relates to productivity. We need a more stable, more secure Mindanao para umangat [ang kanilang mga buhay],” said Yano.
Other members of the GPH CC present who were present during the meeting were OPAPP Assistant Secretaries Agripino Javier and Andres Aguinaldo, and BGen (ret) Buenaventura Pascual. (AFP)

https://pia.gov.ph/press-releases/2021/07/09/pnp-commits-support-to-transformation-program-for-mnlf-combatants