Commentary: Sulu Sultan Adds Sweet Spice To Balikatan Efforts

Supporters of the Sultan of Sulu and North Borneo, Sharif Ibrahim Ajibul Mohammad Pulalun, during a pro-US rally 10 Feb 2006 in Jolo island. (Zamboanga Journal)

Cotabato City (Bapa Bedu / 13 Feb) The US Forces working together with the Filipino soldiers in the "Balikatan" exercises in many parts of Mindanao and elsewhere reminds us of our strategic relations with the United States.

With the Sultan of Jolo backing the "Balikatan" in the lands of the Tausugs, we could say that such development adds a sweet "spice" on the efforts of the government to deliver peace efforts to the Muslim in Mindanao.

In this relation, we would like to add that the optimism expressed by the government on the peace agreement with the MILF within this year will no doubt bolster a positive aspect on our security and growth indicators in all regions of Mindanao.

We also would like to include our positive thought in the long and most awaited peace agreement with the MILF. (PIA 12)