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Peace
Statement from Balay Mindanaw Balay Mindanaw joins all the peace-loving people in condemning the recent spate of violence that has caused grave suffering and misery especially to the poor of Mindanao who have suffered long enough from inequity, poverty and unpeace. We view this as a temporary setback in our quest for just and lasting peace. We understand that the recent violent incidents only indicate the deep divisions within the respective groups. The unfortunate violent incidents may indicate that the “hawks” within the respective groups are becoming more influential with their war framework now at work. We are happy to know that the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have mutually re-affirmed their commitment to the on-going peace process. We ask them to remain on the peaceful road to peace as the cruelty and ruthlessness of violence may have the danger of spreading to other places in Mindanao if the two camps fail to do decisive acts to return to the peace negotiations. We join the various groups as we help create spaces for face-to-face person-to-person peaceful dialogue among the various religions, sectors and other stakeholders in Mindanao. As we issue this call for peace, we also remind ourselves that the quest for just and lasting peace is better achieved through the collective action of all the stakeholders especially in addressing the roots of this conflict. Let peace work in Mindanao NOW. |