Argument for a wider ceasefire

SINCE the latest statements of the National Democratic Front and the government to mutually refrain from taking offensive operations against each other cover only Mindanao, and since there is yet no mutually agreed bilateral ceasefire agreement in place nationwide, the NPA attack in Maasin, Iloilo and elsewhere must be dealt with accordingly and decisively by the AFP and the PNP with the cooperation of civilian agencies and the affected communities.

Having said this, it is disheartening to note that such attacks provide a negative impact in our mutual commitment with the NDF to provide that enabling environment conducive to the continuation of peace negotiations with them.

The “impact” is not just on the peace negotiations, it illustrates the tragedy of the insurgency. Hopefully, the attack is just part of the birthpains of the agreement to stop offensive military actions, even if it covers only Mindanao as of now. It is an argument for a nation-wide ceasefire. —Jesus G. Dureza, presidential peace adviser

A Call for Peace

WE, board members of the Bishops-Ulama Conference, express our solidarity and sympathies with  all the families and communities–both Muslim and Christian–affected by the crisis in Marawi City.

We join our voices for the safety and release of all hostages and innocent civilians caught in the midst of the ongoing conflict in Marawi.

We join hands with the relief efforts extended to the families and individuals that have moved out of Marawi. We commend the hundreds of volunteers working with relief agencies who have offered their time and skills, for the much-needed assistance to internally displaced persons.

We are also thankful for the many stories of Muslims and Christians helping each other and even risking their lives to safeguard the well-being of all.

We express our concern over the dissemination of false news reports, that only add to confusion, unwarranted fears and suspicions among displaced families.

Finally, we make a general appeal for all sectors and religious communities to work together for the rehabilitation and development of Marawi.

We add our prayers, especially during this period of Ramadhan for the safety of all and for the reconciliation among warring groups.

May Almighty God of both Christians and Muslims be with us in our efforts to build a just and lasting peace in Mindanao. –co-convenors Judge Aboali Cali, Bp. Hilario M. Gomez, Abp. Fernando R. Capalla, DD; BUC board members Bp. Danilo Bustamante, Bp. Dinualdo Gutierrez, DD, Fr. Reynaldo Mission, JCD of the Diocese of Marbel, Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, Bp. Edwin de la Peña, MSP, Rev. Ricardo C. Yañez, Rev. Goel B. Bagundol, Jana Jean G. Dacobor, and BUC Affiliate Mindanaw Tripartite Youth Core