Loren to unlock peace talks with development agenda

VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE SEN. LOREN LEGARDA PROPOSES TO RESTART THE PEACE PROCESS WITH MORO ISLAMIC LIBERATION FRONT (MILF) BY INTRODUCING A DEVELOPMENT AGENDA.
Legarda told local media men she intends to pursue the peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) if she and her presidential runningmate Manny Villar win in next month’s election.
“There will be growth and progress in Mindanao if there is peace,” the lady senator said.
Legarda said the resulting jobs and livelihood will secure the peace once an agreement is forged with the rebel Moros.
The peace negotiations between the MILF and government screeched to a halt on October 14, 2008 when the Supreme Court declared the controversial memorandum agreement on ancestral domain against the law.
Legarda, an adopted Muslim princess, said the peace process must be restored and must continue, hoping to restart the negotiations with a development agenda.
The senator is a frequent visitor of the country’s second biggest island and holds dialog with Mindanao leaders and residents.
She has gone to the hinterlands of Surigao, Davao, Zamboanga, and Sulu to negotiate for the release of civilians and soldiers held hostage.
Legarda stressed peace in Mindanao must be placed as a priority agenda in this year’s elections.