MANILA, Philippines: Vice President Sara Duterte has expressed her concerns about the decision to resume peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), referring to it as “a deal with the devil.” Duterte made this statement on the 5th anniversary of the founding of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (Ntf-Elcac).
In her address to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Duterte emphasized her skepticism towards the NDFP, stating, “We have already proven in history that they are not serious and have no sincerity in talking peace. They will use this peace negotiation to betray the government and deceive the public.”
Duterte further appealed to President Marcos Jr. to review the agreement, as well as Proclamation 403 and Proclamation 404. Proclamation 403 grants amnesty to members of the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade who have committed certain crimes, while Proclamation 404 grants amnesty to former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front who have committed certain crimes.
However, Duterte believes that granting amnesty is not the path to achieving peace. She believes that the focus should be on continuing the efforts of the NTF-ELCAC and strengthening it.
On the other hand, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez expressed his support for Marcos’s decision to reopen peace talks. In a statement, Romualdez commended the move as a courageous step towards reconciliation and a testament to the government’s commitment to enduring peace and unity.
He emphasized the importance of coming together as a nation to support the peace process, stating, “In this pursuit, we must all come together–government, civil society, and every Filipino–to support this peace process. It is through our collective efforts and unwavering commitment to peace that we can overcome the barriers of the past and build a stronger, more united Philippines.”
Romualdez also addressed concerns about the negotiation, questioning why there should be fear in engaging in dialogue when the Armed Forces and Republic are strong. He believes that the negotiation is a moral imperative and an opportunity to mend the divisions that have plagued the nation for years.
“We are not just negotiating terms; we are weaving the fabric of a peaceful future for every Filipino,” Romualdez stated.
The differing opinions of Vice President Sara Duterte and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez highlight the complexities surrounding the decision to resume peace talks with the NDFP. While Duterte remains skeptical of the NDFP’s intentions, Romualdez sees the negotiation as a chance for reconciliation and a step towards a more peaceful future.
As the debate continues, it is essential for the government, civil society, and the Filipino people to engage in open and constructive dialogue. By understanding and addressing each other’s concerns, a sustainable and inclusive peace process can be achieved.
It is crucial to recognize that peace negotiations require trust, sincerity, and a genuine commitment from all parties involved. Only through genuine dialogue and understanding can the Philippines overcome its past conflicts and build a stronger, more united nation.
Source: The Manila Times
