| Government optimistic on new peace talks with MILF
By Manny B. Marinay
DEFENSE
Secretary Orlando Mercado yesterday said the government can now “set the stage”
for the resumption of the stalled peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation
Front (MILF).
The MILF
expressed renewed interest to return to the bargaining table following Malacañang’s
directive to the Department of Justice to withdraw the criminal charges filed against top
MILF leaders Hashim Salamat, Al Haj Murad and Eid Kabalu in connection with the spate of
bombings in Mindanao and Metro Manila shopping malls earlier this year.
“That’s
a step ahead. We’re getting nearer to the talks,” Kabalu, MILF spokesman, said.
“I’m
happy to hear that. We welcome all positive steps, no matter how small,” an elated
Mercado told THE MANILA TIMES in a phone interview.
The military,
meantime said, that at least 24 people were killed in clashes that broke out when Muslim
separatist rebels tried to overrun a military outpost in Lanao del sur.
About 50
guerrillas from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attacked the outpost in the
predominantly Christian village of Igabay in Balabagan, Lanao del Sur province, early
Tuesday, said Maj. Johnny Macanas, spokesman for the Army’s 4th Infantry Division.
At least 11
guerrillas were killed initially and six others died as soldiers pursued the retreating
rebels, Macanas said, adding that at least two soldiers and five civilian militiamen were
killed and eight soldiers were wounded in the fighting.
Peace process
Mercado said the
MILF’s willingness to proceed with the peace process will certainly spur the Estrada
administration “to make appropriate actions for a negotiated settlement” with
the country’s largest Moro secessionist group.
He added the
possibility of holding the talks abroad as demanded by the MILF “is being studied
legally.”
“We’re
taking that up in the Cluster E meeting,” Mercado said.
--Aniceto Rasalan and AP
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