Press Release No. 096-03
March 20, 2003
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION KEY ELEMENT IN SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES
PEACE PROCESS—OPLE
In today’s inter-connected and globalized world, it is in the interest of
all nations to be deeply concerned and to wish for the just, peaceful and
meaningful resolution of any conflict, anywhere in the world.
“We no longer have the luxury of sticking our heads in the sand and ignoring
the deep interests of other countries to help us resolve the armed conflicts
that plague our nation, that prevent us from enjoying the fruits of development,
that bring nothing but misery and death to our people,” Secretary Ople
said.
“In the context of our actions to bring peace to Mindanao, particularly in
relation to the MILF, the contributions of the international community will
be most welcome,’ Secretary Ople added.
After a series of inter-agency and diplomatic consultations, the Philippines
will be working with the international community to help bring peace to Mindanao.
“We have asked our friends in the Organization of Islamic States to agree
to be neutral peace monitors in overseeing our ceasefire agreement with the
MILF. We have also asked several countries to provide humanitarian
and development assistance to the areas that have been affected by conflict.
Our overall objective is to build trust and confidence towards the conclusion
of a peace agreement with the MILF,” Secretary Ople said.
“We are deeply touched by and sincerely appreciate the expressions of support
from OIC countries, particularly from Malaysia and Libya, which have actively
participated in efforts to bring peace to Mindanao,” Secretary Ople added.
“I am personally committed to the success of this peace process. I
am working closely with other government agencies on this matter. However,
our desire for peace should not be misinterpreted by armed groups as weakness.
We are committed also to upholding the law and protecting the innocent.
Our military stands ready to carry out its duties, when called upon.
Our military’s sacrifices have been great and they deserve our full support,’
the Secretary said.