Just a few weeks ago, it seemed like the impossible was about to be made a reality. After decades of numerous arguments and failed peace treaties, peace in Mindanao, for once, did not seem so far-fetched.
The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front were and are close to finalizing the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, a document that will help end the deadlock in the peace process.
However, there were warning signs that the talks were little more than attempts at papering over the cracks. The Framework did not include the participation of all the players, particularly the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Perhaps the MNLF was not as receptive or the government was not as conciliatory, but the MNLF’s exclusion from the talks was an egregious mistake, the consequences of which have erupted in recent weeks.
Last August 12, the MNLF declared their independence. And on September 9, the rebel group launched an offensive, entering Zamboanga City and capturing several barangays. As of press time, over 50 persons have been killed.
Sadly, this is but the latest chapter in the fractious relationship between the government and the separatists in the Mindanao. It seems as if conflict constantly impedes any possible progress towards peace in the region. For every breakthrough in negotiations, there comes a period of tension and violence from the two sides.
It cannot be overstated how badly the MNLF’s actions obstruct the peace efforts, providing a distraction during a time of willing collaboration and compromise. Neither can it be overemphasized that violence is not the solution. This is something that the MNLF must be held accountable for.
To some extent, however, both sides are at fault. From the point of view of the MNLF, the supposed annulment of the 1996 peace agreement as well as the government’s focus on collaborating with the MNLF’s historically violent offshoot appears as an insult to the MNLF’s efforts throughout the decades. These are reasons enough for the MNLF to be displeased.
Despite the many promises of the separatists and despite the reassurances of the government, much of their words echo the same rhetoric of the past several decades. It makes one wonder whether the two sides will ever learn from their mistakes, or whether genuine progress can ever be possible for the region.
For now, the MNFL’s actions serve as a roadblock, a temporary hindrance to progress in the region. However, we cannot help but feel that the infrastructure and willpower for peace are in place and that Mindanao is ready for an end to the conflicts.
The people of Mindanao deserve an immediate end to the conflict. The GUIDON stands in solidarity with them in their quest for peace and we call for the immediate surrender of the MNLF rebels.
This conflict is by no means worth the derailment of progress and the loss of life that come with it. Zamboanga City needs peace and it needs it now.
