New MNLF Group To Support Peace Efforts In Mindanao

Bensuadie Lumenda signs the Memorandum of Understanding with Secy. Jesus Dureza. Also in is Ilocos Sur Governor Luis Chavit Singson, who serves as adviser to MNLF group.

Manila (Romy Montenegro / 09 Mar) Officials of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) JuniorOfficers for Peace and Development, Inc. (MJOPDI) have expressed commitment and support to the government's comprehesive peace and development efforts in Mindanao.

The manifestation of support was contained in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed this week by MJOPDI and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Some 20 officials and members of MJOPDI attended the signing of the agreement which is expected to help strengthen ongoing peace and development initiatives in Mindanao's conflict-affected areas.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secy. Jesus Dureza, said the undertaking is important to the government's continuing efforts to sustain the implementation of the 1996 GRP-MNLF Peace accord.

"This agreement with the junior officers of the MNLF indicates that peace and development work in Mindanao can be successfully attained through a dynamic teamwork and collaboration," Dureza said.

He said the government welcomes every opportunity to engage key peace stakeholders as partners for various peace and development initiatives in the region.

"This is a strong positive signal that the Arroyo government is sincere in pursuing its commitment to fully achieve sustainable peace and development in Mindanao," he said.

MJOPDI chairman Bensaudie Lumeda said that as the government continues to embark on a comprehensive peace process leading to just and lasting solution to armed conflicts, the MJOPDI commits to fully cooperate and extend all out support to ensure the success of implementing programs and projects in Mindanao.

"Our organization will serve as one of the government's immediate partners in achieving its goal for accelerating peace and development in Mindanao," Lumeda said.

MJOPDI is an organization of young officers formerly under various revolutionary state commands of the MNLF, who have bonded to actively contribute to the government's peace and development efforts.