Razon optimistic on peace talks with Reds

MANILA, Philippines - The government aims to sign a two-pronged peace agreement to end hostilities with communist rebels and secessionists in Mindanao.

Avelino Razon Jr., presidential adviser on the peace process, said the government was very pleased to know that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the National Democratic Front (NDF) have expressed desire to resume peace talks.

“There is a very good prospect we could give to our people because it reflects our dedication, perseverance and patience to achieve a lasting peace in our country,” he said.

Razon said the reopening of peace talks between the government, the MILF and the NDF, would bring progress and development to the Filipino people, especially in Mindanao.

It could also end the 40-year insurgency problems in the country, the longest running in the world, he added.

Razon said the government did not stop back-channeling after peace talks with the MILF collapsed a year ago following the aborted signing of the agreement on ancestral domain, and negotiations with communist rebels bogged down in 2005 after the United States tagged the New People’s Army as a terrorist organization.

“Our efforts have paid off,” he said.

“The government panels are ready to resume talks with them so we can have peace in our beloved Philippines.”

Ambassador Rafael Seguis, chief government peace negotiator, announced that the MILF was ready to resume negotiations after returning from Kuala Lumpur last week.

The agreement on ancestral domain will no longer be discussed in the negotiations, he added.

On the other hand, a government peace panel will go to Oslo, Norway this month in preparation for peace talks with communist rebels, Razon said. – Jose Rodel Clapano