Cory's call for peace

MANILA, Philippines - Even in death Pres. Cory Aquino continues to be a beckon for reunification and peace. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front gave cognizance to the former president in whose term autonomy for the Muslim region took center stage.

We expect however that this is not merely an expression of compassion for a leader who has gone to the great beyond but find expression in action. After all the MILF and the government have entered into a consensus, declaring cessation of hostilities first and then resuming the peace talks next.

By now, the two panels knew what are the genuine aspirations of the people in the area of conflict. They cannot make these communities their permanent political arena were they stage hostilities and inflict harm on innocent civilians to invite attention to their demands. This iniquity must end as savagery and barbarism can no longer be used to threaten and blackmail.

It is pathetic that we have to run to other countries to settle our internal differences. But since they have shown their compassion for us anyway with the promise and even guarantee to come to aid the displaced families then we might as well proceed with this talk and put an end to petty bickering.

The potential of regions affected by the conflicts cannot be exploited and developed because this is deterred by hostilities. The tragedy of this all is that children lose their opportunity for decent education and therefore the cycle of ignorance and poverty continues to inflict damage on victims of conflict.

Peace and unity. “Pagkakaisa”. It is the clarion call of Cory alive and even in death. Let’s put substance to this and embrace each other for her and our sake. — RINA DE JESUS, Cotabato City