Resumption of peace talks highlight Palace security meet

The resumption of the government's peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front highlighted the recent National Security Council meet at Malacañang Tuesday, according to Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye.

Bunye said the NSC meeting , which included the leadership of both houses of Congress as well as local leaders of Basilan and Sulu were present.

Among those who attended were Senate President Manny Villar, House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Senators Aquilino Pimentel, Richard Gordon, Juan Ponce Enrile, Francisco Pangilinan, Rodolfo Biazon, and Gregorio Honasan.

Bunye said the highlight of the meeting was "the broad support for the President's affirmation of the prime importance of preserving the ceasefire and advancing the peace process, which resumes on Aug. 22 in Malaysia. "

He added that," The Department of National Defense/Armed Forces of the Philippines (DND/AFP) also gave a cogent and comprehensive briefing, and further details would be provided after an ongoing investigation on the matter is concluded."

Likewise, he said the military has deployed ample forces to secure Basilan and Sulu, while undertaking limited punitive and police operations.

On the other hand, he noted that the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) is evacuating affected communities, with relief supplies pre-positioned near evacuation centers.

"The NSC acknowledged the need for more intensive development efforts and affirmative action for Muslim communities, to settle the conflicts in Mindanao," the press spokesperson said.

He concluded that the NSC also supported the plan for local peace assemblies through which the national government shall support peace initiatives of local chief executives, citing the highly successful experience of Bohol province.