Presidential Adviser on Peace Process briefs UN experts

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 13): Presidential Adviser on Peace Process briefs UN experts

The Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, briefed on March 8 over 20 United Nations (UN) experts on the latest developments in the Mindanao peace process following the historic signing last year of the framework peace agreement between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Secretary Deles discussed the mandates of the different technical working groups. She also explained the roadmap for peace that envisions the eventual creation of the Bangsamoro, ending over four decades of insurgency in southern Philippines.

A 15-member committee is now drafting the Basic Law that, once passed by Congress and approved in a local plebiscite, will govern the Bangsamoro in time for the 2016 Philippine national elections.

“UN experts welcomed this opportunity and thanked the Philippines for personally keeping them up-to-speed on the Mindanao peace process, no less from Secretary Deles herself,” said Ambassador Libran Cabactulan, Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the United Nations.

The experts come from various units, including the respective secretariats involved in mediation, peace building, political affairs and the Al-Qaeda sanctions committee.

The interactive discussion allowed Secretary Deles to address questions, such as the amendment of the Philippine constitution, possible constitutional challenges at any stage of the peace process, as well as the role of the facilitator, the International Contact Group, and possible greater UN involvement at a later stage, especially on development issues.

Secretary Deles highlighted the essential role that women play on all sides of the peace process, saying, “We cannot talk about the pursuit of peace without recognizing the role of women, especially today on International Women’s Day.”

Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles, was in New York leading the Philippine delegation to the 57th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, accompanied by Ambassador Libran Cabactulan.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1781363163509