On Mamasapano

There have had many set backs and struggles in the negotiation process between the government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Throughout decades or over a century in Mindanao (Southern Philippines) since the establishment of the first republic, huge numbers of peoples were internally displaced, thousands of lives lost, and millions of properties were destroyed. So I think the recent incident in Mamasapano should not ultimately define and color the peace process between the GRP and the MILF. If there is one thing clear about this tragic event is that we should speed up the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law in order to avoid future clashes.

I am still hopeful that officials/representatives of MILF, MNLF and several sub groups should find in their hearts to reconcile and unite for the sake of peace and prosperity. Our societies have remained economically stagnant and we are very much left behind in this (post)modern era of globalization. I am desperately saddened that fundamentalism and extremism are gradually overtaking the belief system of young generation of Moros. Now is the time to stand united and strengthen the education system so we could fight ignorance, stupidity, extremism, and be prepared against future great disasters that may caused by global warming (climate change), etc. I see the future Bangsamoro government a very promising one, thus we should not waste it.

It is indeed that what happened in Mamasapano is a tragic event and I extremely commiserate the loss of lives. We have to be calm, observant, contemplate, and wait for the results of investigations done by GRP and MILF. Aggression and emotions should not over run our mental faculties. The mainstream media should be fair and practice responsible journalism because unfortunately Filipino public opinion can be easily swayed and manipulated. Public officials and MILF officers must be intellectually critical before commenting when they are approached by media personnel.

We must stand for peace because only through peace we will achieve prosperity, coexistence and happiness.