By Pearl Gumapos
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is currently taking measures to strengthen peace building efforts by the Government of the Philippines (GPH) Coordinating Committee in peace initiatives with political organizations based in Mindanao.
PNP Chief Police Gen. Guillermo Eleazar met with members of the GPH-MNLF Coordinating Committee, which is being led by Undersecretary Arthur I. Tabaquero, during a brief meeting at the PNP National Headquarters in Camp Crame.
Among the concerns and issues discussed were the carrying of firearms by members of these organizations during conducting recruitment activities, travelling, and claiming territories by displaying their flag.
According to Eleazar, the PNP supports any and all government initiatives with organizations that have shown sincerity to take part in the peace process initiative.
“As officers of the law, we have seen the ugly face of war and conflict that has caused misery and stalled development and progress in many parts of the country. By all means, let’s give peace a chance,” Eleazar said.
The PNP Chief said that teamwork and cooperation are key to be able to reach success and fulfillment in doing the roles and fulfilling the responsibilities of parties involved in the peace process.
“Bilang alagad ng batas ay tungkulin naming maproteksyonan at mabigyan ng tunay na seguridad ang bawat mamamayan, at sa hangarin natin maitatag ang pangmatagalang kapayapaan sa ilang lalawigan at munisipalidad sa Mindanao, alam ko na malaki ang maitutulong ng GPH-MNLF Coordinating Committee upang magawan ng iba’t-ibang pamamaraan, programa at proyekto kung paano natin mapapanatili ang kaayusan at katahimikan sa Mindanao,” Eleazar said.
“While the government’s ultimate aim is to win the peace, the goal for the short to medium term shall be to bring all armed conflicts to a permanent and peaceful closure,” he added.
The GPH-MNLF Coordinating Committee was created in 2019 which serves as a venue to seek for the cooperation of the MNLF to achieve immediate peace in Sulu. -rir
