MNLF's support essential for peace, dev't in Mindanao: Sara

From the Philippine News Agency (May 2, 2022): MNLF's support essential for peace, dev't in Mindanao: Sara (By Che Palicte)

Vice presidential aspirant Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte. (PNA file photo)

Mayor Sara Z. Duterte said Monday the endorsement of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) is essential to the UniTeam's cause of bringing about peace and development in Mindanao and the rest of the country.

In a statement, the vice presidential contender thanked the MNLF for its support of her candidacy as well as for his running mate presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

On April 25, Albakil ‘Thong’ Jikiri, current MNLF national vice chairman for military affairs, issued the group’s official statement in Zamboanga City urging their members to support the tandem and the rest of the candidates under Uniteam.

"Jikiri cited their confidence in the wisdom and sincerity of both I and Mr. Marcos," Duterte said.

She said the MNLF’s support to the UniTeam will serve as a "solid foundation" in their pursuit of continued peace and development and "equality of rights and opportunities for the Moro community."

"As a Mindanawon, I will always protect and support the interest of Mindanao and its people, knowing the role of Mindanao in the growth of the entire country," she said.

Meanwhile, Muslimin Sema, chairman of the MNLF’s central committee, also supported the presidential daughter's bid for the vice presidency in the coming May 9 polls.

Sema said they have asked all of their families, members, and field commanders to vote for Duterte.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1173504