'No interim peace deal'

MANILA, Philippines - Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Annabelle Abaya denied yesterday the existence of any “interim peace agreement” allegedly to be initiated or signed by the Philippine peace panel with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Abaya made the statement in reaction to a letter she received from lawyer Israelito Torren’s requesting, on behalf of Vice Gov. Emmanuel Piñol and his brother, Rep. Bernardo Piñol, for a draft of the alleged “interim peace agreement” and the reported 32-page petition for mandamus and prohibition with application for issuance of a writ of preliminary injunction and/or temporary restraining order that OPAPP allegedly filed before the Supreme Court.

Abaya clarified that in the process of talks, there have been an explanation of ideas, positions and proposals.

“But there still has to emerge a single working draft of any agreement, interim or otherwise,” Abaya said.

She said the negotiations require that both sides discuss and understand the possible common ground.

She told the Piñols that at present, the GRP panel is not yet anywhere near the overly optimistic reports of the media.

“The GRP has underlined to the MILF the importance of territorial integrity, sovereignty and respect for the rule of law and constitutional process,” Abaya said.

She said the GRP panel had also stayed within exploring “executive doables,” or those within the powers of the presidency, such as enhancing governance of the autonomous region through improved processes and assistance.

She said the GRP had been very careful not to commit how the people might decide in case of a plebiscite or how Congress might act on possible legislative proposals.

Abaya invited Piñol and his brother to meet with her so that she can discuss their apprehensions and reassure them of the GRP panel’s judicious handling of the negotiations.

She reiterated the OPAPP’s commitment to full disclosure and consultations as the peace talks are of high public interest and importance.