Talumpati
ng
Kagalang-galang Benigno S. Aquino III
Pangulo ng Pilipinas
Sa paglagda ng batas na magpapaliban sa eleksyon sa Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) at magsasabay sa lokal at pambansang halalan sa 2013
[Inilahad sa Malacañan Palace noong ika-30 ng Hunyo, 2011]
Tinatawag pong the Land of Promise ang Mindanao dahil sa lawak ng potensyal nitong umasenso.
Nasa inyo ang mayamang agrikultura, yamang dagat at mineral, langis at natural gas. Subalit sa nagdaang mga dekada, tila napabayaan ang rehiyong ito at naiwang nakapako ang tangan niyang mga pangako. At tila kabaligtaran pa ang naihahayag na imahen nito sa publiko. Nakakalungkot isipin na dahil sa mga pangyayari sa ARMM, naging karugtong ng pangalan nito ang mga rebeldeng grupong kinatatakutan ng mga dayuhan; ang karahasang dulot ng Maguindanao Massacre, at ang walang-patumanggang pandaraya tuwing halalan.
Sa araw pong ito, isinasakatuparan natin ang isang repormang magtatanglaw ng pagbabago at pag-asa sa ARMM. Nilagdaan natin ngayon ang batas na magpapaliban sa eleksyon sa rehiyon at magsasabay sa lokal at pambansang halalan.
May ilan pong nagtatanong: bakit ba kailangang ipagpaliban ang eleksyon? Ang iba, nagrereklamong hindi raw ito maka-demokrasya; na ipinagkakait nito sa kanila ang kalayaan na makapili ng kanilang mga pinuno.
Ang ibabalik ko namang tanong sa kanila: sa dinatnan nating kalakaran, tinatamasa ba ng ARMM ang tunay na demokrasya?
Kung ang makikita po natin tuwing eleksyon ay ganito: mga botanteng dinidiktahan kung sino ang isusulat sa balota, may demokrasya kaya ba? Mga estudyanteng napipilitang upuan ang mga balota upang protektahan ang mga boto habang pinapaligiran ng mga armadong tauhan ng mga politiko, may demokrasya ba? Mga gurong akap-akap ang mga balot box, nangangatog dahil sa pagbabanta sa kanilang mga buhay, may demokrasya ba?
Balikan din po natin ang ilang tagpo noong 2007 elections. Nang inihayag ang resulta ng halalan sa Maguindanao, ang lumabas: 12-0. Lahat po ng pambatong Senador ni Ginang Arroyo, panalo. Papaano po kaya nangyari ito? Sa isip ko, ganoon na lang kaya kalaki ang fans club ng koponang Arroyo sa ARMM?
Hindi naman po siguro posible na kapag ibang partido ang ibinoto mo, biglang nawawalan ng tinta ang gamit mong pluma. O baka naman ang kanilang mga balota, tinangay lamang ng hangin. Hanggang ngayon po, isang napakalaking palaisipan pa rin ang mga ganitong tagpo.
Alam ko pong hindi lingid sa kaalaman ninyo ang mga pangyayaring tulad ng mga ito. At lalo pa po tayong napapailing sa iba pang suliraning natuklasan natin sa ARMM.
Isa pa rin ang ARMM sa pinakamahirap na rehiyon sa bansa. Ang naitala pong insidente ng kahirapan sa mga pamilya sa ARMM noong 2009 ay nasa 38.1 percent, at lahat po ng probinsya sa rehiyon ay nasa ilalim ng national poverty incidence, na 20.9 percent.
Ang Maguindanao ang may pinakamalubhang insidente ng kahirapan sa rehiyon na may naitalang 44.6 percent sa taon ding iyon.
Nakapagtataka naman po yatang umabot pa rin sa sitwasyong ito ang ARMM, sa kabila ng pondong inilalaan taun-taon para sa kapakanan ng rehiyon. Nakakalungkot nga po dahil tila naging manhid na ang mga taga-ARMM sa garapal na kalakaran ng ilang mga pinuno dito. Ang ibang nahalal sa puwesto, naglalakihang mga mansyon ang inuuwian, samantalang ang mga kababayan nila, maalikabok at lubak-lubak pa rin ang kalsadang dinadaanan.
Kapag may mga proyektong pinagkagastusan, diretso lamang ito sa bulsa ng kung kanino; kapag may procurement na inilabas, walang public bidding; kapag gumastos, walang liquidation, at kapag sumahod ang ibang mga lokal na opisyal, halos hindi na magkasya sa calculator ang kanilang suweldo.
Kakaiba nga ho talaga ang ARMM: mayroon na pong “ghost school,” ay kailangan po ng “ghost teacher.”
Ang mga ganitong datos at palakad ang nagtulak sa atin upang umaksyon agad. Ngayong tayo na po ang nasa panunungkulan, hindi na po natin maaatim ang muling paghahari ng ganitong mga insidente at paghihirap ng ating mamamayan. Gaya ng sabi ng aking ama noon: ang unang kalayaan na dapat nating makamit ay ang kalayaan mula sa kagutuman.
Malinaw pong nakapiit sa katiwalian ang rehiyong ito. Pinosasan ang kalayaan ng mga taga-ARMM; hindi nabibigyan ng puwang ang tunay na boses ng mamamayan. Upang mahinto ang mga iregularidad sa pamamahala sa ARMM, isinulong natin ang pagpapaliban ng ARMM elections para isabay na natin ito sa lokal at pambansang halalan. Maraming salamat po sa ating mga kaalyado sa Kongreso at Senado, sa pamumuno po ni Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile at House Speaker Sonny Belmonte, at sa mga nanguna’t sumuporta sa pagsusulong ng batas na ito. Dahil sa pakikiisa at pagkakaisa ng lehislatura at ehekutibo, pinagtibay na natin ngayon ang repormang magtatanglaw na tunay na demokrasya sa mga taga-ARMM.
Mahalaga pong sa bawat programa, kapag tinanong tayo kung ano ang nais nating mangyari, hindi tayo uutal-utal. Malinaw ang ating hangarin para sa ARMM: Upang marinig ang tunay na saloobin ng taumbayan, tutuldukan na natin ang paghahari-harian ng mga politikal na angkan na pasimuno ng dayaan sa eleksyon, at bubuwagin natin ang kanilang mga private army. Maliban pa dito, isasakatuparan din ng DILG ang isang roadmap para sa mga reporma sa rehiyon—tungo sa tunay na kaunlaran at kapayapaan sa ARMM. Kaakibat po ng repormang elektoral na ating isinusulong dito, lilinisin natin ang voters’ list, sa pamamagitan ng muling pagpapatala ng mga botante, at pagiging moderno ng eleksyon.
Patitibayin din natin ang pakikiisa ng civil society groups, na magkakaloob ng mga voter’s education, at magsisilbi ring mga watchdog sa halalan.
Ngayong tayo na ang nanunungkulan, hindi natin hahayaang makalusot ang anumang katiwalian.
At kung may makalusot man sa kanila, di tayo mapapagod na habulin at panagutin sila. Sa pagpapaganap ng batas na nilagdaan natin ngayon, mas mapapaigting natin ang mabuting pamamahala at mas magiging bukas at malinaw ang ating patutunguhan.
Babantayan ng DILG ang operasyon ng ARMM para tiyakin na nasusunod ang batas. Ipinahinto na rin po natin ang pagkakaloob ng cash advances ng ibang mga opisyal para sa procurement ng mga gamit, supplies, at mga ipamamahaging serbisyo para sa mga mamamayan. Sisiguraduhin nating dadaan sa public bidding ang mga procurement at magiging malinaw ang pagkakaloob nito sa mga intended beneficiaries para sa maayos na dokumentasyon. Bahagi ito ng ating mga hakbang upang isiwalat ang mga tinatagong transaksyon at pagsho-shortcut sa burukrasya.
May mga pagkakataon pong kailangan munang kalkalin at ayusin muna ang nakagawian nang sistema bago ito maipatupad nang maayos. Ang pinirmahan nga po nating batas ay isang malaking hakbang sa pagsasakongkreto sa katuparan ng pangarap natin sa ARMM. Ang gusto natin—wala nang estudyante ang papasok sa paaralan nang may tuyong lalamunan dahil sa kawalan ng malinis na tubig na maiinom; wala nang guro ang napipilitang maghigpit ng sinturon dahil sa kakaramput na sweldo at sa puro pangakong benepisyo; at wala na ring amang wala nang ibang makitang paraan kundi kumapit na lang sa patalim para lang may maihain sa kanyang pamilya.
Ang mga mithiin pong ito, maisasakatuparan kaya natin sa loob ng isa’t kalahating taon? Maaaring hindi po.
Ngunit umaasa tayo na kapag naranasan ng ARMM ang maayos at tapat na pamamalakad, sila na mismo ang tuloy na magpapatulak at magtutulak na ipagpatuloy ang nasimulan na nating pagbabago.
Ito na po marahil ang pinakamagandang pagkakataon natin upang tuldukan ang matagal nang problema ng rehiyon. Muli, maraming salamat sa ating mga mambabatas at sa mga lider ng ARMM na sinuportahan ang batas na ito sa kanilang pakikiisa at pagiging kabalikat sa pagtutuwid sa baluktot na sistema.
Tiwala po akong ang pagpapaliban at pagsasabay ng halalan sa ARMM sa lokal at pambansang halalan ay susi upang maisagawa ang mga kinakailangang reporma sa rehiyon, at magsisimula lamang ito kapag hindi na nabubusalan ang karapatang bumoto ang mga taga-ARMM, at may naihalal silang tapat, may malasakit, at maasahang pinuno.
Dito lamang maibabalik ang Mindanao na nakilala bilang the Land of Promise—isang rehiyong hindi tambakan ng mga pangakong napapako lamang, ngunit isang rehiyong pugad ng kasaganahan, tangan ang kaniyang pinaka-potensyal, at natatanglawan na ng liwanag ng pag-asa. Talaga naman pong kaysarap sabihing: puwede na po muli tayong mangarap.
Magkapit-kamay tayo sa pagtahak sa tuwid na daan tungo sa katuparan ng mga pangarap na ito.
Ulit, at uulit-ulitin ko po, maraming, maraming salamat, dahil pati ako po’y … talagang napalapit na nating makamptan ang ating mga pangarap.
Salamat po muli.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Monday, June 6, 2011
Generation Youth Peace network pays courtesy call on MILF
June 6, 2011 - The Generation Peace Youth Network or GenPeace led by its head secretariat and Program Coordinator Nikki Delfin of Gazton Z. Ortigas Peace Institute and Mirma Mae C. Tica, Program Coordinator Center for Peace Education Miriam College, paid a courtesy call on June 5 on the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Vice-Chairman for Political Affairs GhazaliJaafar at his office in Simuay, Sultan Kudarat.
Also included in the meeting was the local partners of GenPeace in Cotabato City and Maguindanao such as the United Youth for Peace and Development, TiyakapKawagib- community based human rights defenders and Bangsamoro Youth Assembly.
The visit to Vice Chairman Jaafar is part of the courtesy and respect of GenPeace to the leadership of the MILF in its continuing struggle for the right to self-determination and freedom of the Bangsamoro People.
During the discussion, Ghazi Jaafar made his prelude by sharing the Bangsamoro history prior the coming of Spaniards. He specifically mentioned the book authored by Vic Hurley, the Swish of the Kris, that specifically dealt with the insurrection of the fearless Moro warriors in the Southern portion of the Philippines. Jaafar shared the narration of the author of the resistance by the Moros armed only with bladed weapons known as kalis or kris "as one of the most terrible offensive weapon developed by man.
Vic Hurley settled in Mindanao during the Spanish and American occupations of the country, principally in the provinces of Cotabato and Zamboanga, for seven years.
The meeting revolved mainly on the discussions concerning the forthcoming peace talks slated on June 27-28, 2011 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, ARMM election, Moro political detainees and the role of women in the sub-state proposal.
When asked what will happen to the peace process if the counter proposal of the government is very far from the demand of the MILF, Jaafar quickly replied, “we are a legitimate and strong revolutionary organization and always prepared for any eventuality”. He confided, the MILF continuously conducting series of consultation to its forty provincial committees all over Mindanao.
He reiterated the proposal submitted to the government is the result of numerous consultations with the Bangsamoro people after shifting its position from independence to full autonomy.
Peace is only attained in Mindanao if Bangsamoro issue resolve, Jaafar stressed.
The meeting lasted for over an hour and GenPeace is thankful for the candid reaction of Vice Chairman Jaafar and looked forward to further its contribution for the peace advocacy and promoting culture of peace to younger generation particularly to the non-Moro sectors.
GenPeace is a network of organizations and individuals engaging for a youth-led advocacy towards a just and sustainable peace in the Philippines particularly in Mindanao. It was formed in 2006 after the need for a more coherent youth peace advocacy and youth peace agenda.
Currently, GenPeace is constantly engaging around 40 different networks and organizations from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao with core leaders coming from 10 different organizations and networks with expertise in various fields such as Advocacy and Campaigns, Human Rights, Development, International Humanitarian Law and Peace Education among others.
To date, GenPeace has linkages with International Alert, Gaston Z. Ortigas Peace Institute, the UN Alliance of Civilizations, the United Network of Young Peacebuilders, UN Development Programme – Conflict Prevention and PeacebuildingProgramme, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Manindigansa Peace Talks, and the Mindanao Solidarity Network.
The successful meeting of GenPeace with MILF Vice Chairman was made possible thru the facilitation of the Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP).
Also included in the meeting was the local partners of GenPeace in Cotabato City and Maguindanao such as the United Youth for Peace and Development, TiyakapKawagib- community based human rights defenders and Bangsamoro Youth Assembly.
The visit to Vice Chairman Jaafar is part of the courtesy and respect of GenPeace to the leadership of the MILF in its continuing struggle for the right to self-determination and freedom of the Bangsamoro People.
During the discussion, Ghazi Jaafar made his prelude by sharing the Bangsamoro history prior the coming of Spaniards. He specifically mentioned the book authored by Vic Hurley, the Swish of the Kris, that specifically dealt with the insurrection of the fearless Moro warriors in the Southern portion of the Philippines. Jaafar shared the narration of the author of the resistance by the Moros armed only with bladed weapons known as kalis or kris "as one of the most terrible offensive weapon developed by man.
Vic Hurley settled in Mindanao during the Spanish and American occupations of the country, principally in the provinces of Cotabato and Zamboanga, for seven years.
The meeting revolved mainly on the discussions concerning the forthcoming peace talks slated on June 27-28, 2011 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, ARMM election, Moro political detainees and the role of women in the sub-state proposal.
When asked what will happen to the peace process if the counter proposal of the government is very far from the demand of the MILF, Jaafar quickly replied, “we are a legitimate and strong revolutionary organization and always prepared for any eventuality”. He confided, the MILF continuously conducting series of consultation to its forty provincial committees all over Mindanao.
He reiterated the proposal submitted to the government is the result of numerous consultations with the Bangsamoro people after shifting its position from independence to full autonomy.
Peace is only attained in Mindanao if Bangsamoro issue resolve, Jaafar stressed.
The meeting lasted for over an hour and GenPeace is thankful for the candid reaction of Vice Chairman Jaafar and looked forward to further its contribution for the peace advocacy and promoting culture of peace to younger generation particularly to the non-Moro sectors.
GenPeace is a network of organizations and individuals engaging for a youth-led advocacy towards a just and sustainable peace in the Philippines particularly in Mindanao. It was formed in 2006 after the need for a more coherent youth peace advocacy and youth peace agenda.
Currently, GenPeace is constantly engaging around 40 different networks and organizations from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao with core leaders coming from 10 different organizations and networks with expertise in various fields such as Advocacy and Campaigns, Human Rights, Development, International Humanitarian Law and Peace Education among others.
To date, GenPeace has linkages with International Alert, Gaston Z. Ortigas Peace Institute, the UN Alliance of Civilizations, the United Network of Young Peacebuilders, UN Development Programme – Conflict Prevention and PeacebuildingProgramme, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Manindigansa Peace Talks, and the Mindanao Solidarity Network.
The successful meeting of GenPeace with MILF Vice Chairman was made possible thru the facilitation of the Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP).
Saturday, May 14, 2011
SOMEONE ELSE’S WINDOWS: Dealing with Kato
By H. Marcos C. Mordeno | Sunday| May 8, 2011 | Filed under: SOMEONE ELSE'S WINDOWS. By H. Marcos C. Mordeno
MALAYBALAY CITY (MindaNews/07 May) – On several occasions the government has raised the issue of the move of Amiril Umra Kato to part ways with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front as one that may affect the course of the peace talks. Kato, former commander of the MILF’s 105th Base Command, has formed the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) over dissatisfaction with what he called “endless negotiations” that had led to no decisive outcome.
Kato may have a valid point. The previous administration had a chance to prove it was sincere in finding a lasting solution to the Moro rebellion in Mindanao. However, then President Arroyo did not stand up to the challenge posed by the opponents of the Memorandum of Agreement
on Ancestral Domain and practically left her peace negotiators to the mercies of the spoilers like former Cotabato vice governor Emmanuel Pinol, former senator Manuel Roxas III and media personalities who may not have read the document at all. The Supreme Court eventually declared the MOA-AD as unconstitutional.
It was the junking of the MOA-AD that reportedly made Kato doubt government’s sincerity in the peace talks. A few days after the Supreme Court decision hostilities erupted anew in parts of North Cotabato and Maguindanao between government forces and MILF units loyal to Kato .It’s not clear how many fighters are with Kato. What is clear is that he can, if he chooses to, be a stumbling block to the peace process.
In a recent interview with MindaNews, Kato disclosed he “will not stand in the way of peace negotiations”. This is reassuring. But both the government and the MILF should note that he has no patience with negotiations without a definite timeframe. He did not say he can wait
for another eternity for an agreement that would reflect the Moro people’s aspirations for self-determination, presumably something akin to the botched MOA-AD.
A closer look would reveal that Kato has some odds stacked in his favor even if he lacks the numbers at present. By giving the talks a chance to succeed he has somehow dispelled notions that he is a hawk as cultivated by media sensationalism. If he manages to avoid making
unwanted moves or stays out of trouble amid possible provocation until such reasonable time that the negotiation reaches a happy ending, Kato will have nothing to lose. He won’t be a hero. But he won’t be a villain either.
On the other hand, if the peace process drags on indefinitely without hints of mutually acceptable terms of agreement Kato would be vindicated in his belief that government simply wants to manage the conflict not resolve it. Allowing this thing to happen is a formula for further disillusionment among the Moro people. They may not necessarily cast their lot with the BIFF but they will certainly lose faith in the talks.
Much will depend on government considering the vested interests within it that are wary of anything remotely related to Moro self-determination. The best way to deal with Kato is to make sure these interests won’t get in the way of the peace process. Otherwise, he will have a good reason to say to the Moro people “I told you so”.(MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. H. Marcos C. Mordeno can be reached at hmcmordeno@gmail.com)
MALAYBALAY CITY (MindaNews/07 May) – On several occasions the government has raised the issue of the move of Amiril Umra Kato to part ways with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front as one that may affect the course of the peace talks. Kato, former commander of the MILF’s 105th Base Command, has formed the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) over dissatisfaction with what he called “endless negotiations” that had led to no decisive outcome.
Kato may have a valid point. The previous administration had a chance to prove it was sincere in finding a lasting solution to the Moro rebellion in Mindanao. However, then President Arroyo did not stand up to the challenge posed by the opponents of the Memorandum of Agreement
on Ancestral Domain and practically left her peace negotiators to the mercies of the spoilers like former Cotabato vice governor Emmanuel Pinol, former senator Manuel Roxas III and media personalities who may not have read the document at all. The Supreme Court eventually declared the MOA-AD as unconstitutional.
It was the junking of the MOA-AD that reportedly made Kato doubt government’s sincerity in the peace talks. A few days after the Supreme Court decision hostilities erupted anew in parts of North Cotabato and Maguindanao between government forces and MILF units loyal to Kato .It’s not clear how many fighters are with Kato. What is clear is that he can, if he chooses to, be a stumbling block to the peace process.
In a recent interview with MindaNews, Kato disclosed he “will not stand in the way of peace negotiations”. This is reassuring. But both the government and the MILF should note that he has no patience with negotiations without a definite timeframe. He did not say he can wait
for another eternity for an agreement that would reflect the Moro people’s aspirations for self-determination, presumably something akin to the botched MOA-AD.
A closer look would reveal that Kato has some odds stacked in his favor even if he lacks the numbers at present. By giving the talks a chance to succeed he has somehow dispelled notions that he is a hawk as cultivated by media sensationalism. If he manages to avoid making
unwanted moves or stays out of trouble amid possible provocation until such reasonable time that the negotiation reaches a happy ending, Kato will have nothing to lose. He won’t be a hero. But he won’t be a villain either.
On the other hand, if the peace process drags on indefinitely without hints of mutually acceptable terms of agreement Kato would be vindicated in his belief that government simply wants to manage the conflict not resolve it. Allowing this thing to happen is a formula for further disillusionment among the Moro people. They may not necessarily cast their lot with the BIFF but they will certainly lose faith in the talks.
Much will depend on government considering the vested interests within it that are wary of anything remotely related to Moro self-determination. The best way to deal with Kato is to make sure these interests won’t get in the way of the peace process. Otherwise, he will have a good reason to say to the Moro people “I told you so”.(MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. H. Marcos C. Mordeno can be reached at hmcmordeno@gmail.com)
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Peace caravan launched in Mindanao to support GRP-MILF talks
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Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Peace groups to GPH-MILF panels: “Negotiate A Political Settlement Now!”
Press Release
April 27, 2011
The Davao City-based peace advocacy group Mindanao Peoples Caucus (MPC) has called on both the GPH and the MILF panels to focus their discussions in coming up with a mutually acceptable political formula that will finally resolve the root causes of the armed conflict in Mindanao.
MPC Chair Reu Montecillo, a protestant pastor from Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, said in a rally today that the peace panels should immediately deliver the working drafts of a peace agreement that address the Bangsamoro’s demand for self-governance, power and wealth-sharing rather than divert their attention on peripheral issues and technicalities.
Today, the government and MILF peace panels started the two-day 24th round of exploratory talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia amid pronouncement of government that it plans to conclude the already 12-year-old negotiations in the next 12 months.
Pastor Montecillo said that “since the timeframe set by the government to finally reach a negotiated settlement with the MILF is 12 months, there is a need to fast track the talks so that both panels can soon come up with an agreement on the substantial agenda of negotiation.”
The MILF has already laid down its proposal for a sub-state which will be governed by the Bangsamoro with corresponding details on power-sharing and resources-sharing, among others.
“We hope that this meeting in Malaysia will finally discuss the points in the comprehensive compact and that the next meeting of the GPH-MILF panel will be the formal negotiation that should logically lead to the signing of an inclusive peace agreement agreeable to both parties and acceptable to the majority of the stakeholders,” Montecillo stressed to a crowd of peace advocates that formed a “human chain for peace” in a crowded place fronting the biggest mall in Davao City.
The church minister called on “all church leaders of different churches in the Philippines and the world to support and pray for the success of the negotiations,” saying peace makers would “ultimately be blessed for their efforts in trying to realize the kingdom of God here on earth.”
Montecillo also requested the business sector to “take a pro-active role in ensuring that the peace process in Mindanao would succeed because a peaceful environment, no doubt, will always produce a climate conducive for investment and business.”
“Mindanao has unlimited untapped business potentials. Once there is peace, we are almost sure that business activity in Mindanao may be doubled, or, even tripled,” he said.
The peace advocates, who formed a 200-meter human chain along Quimpo Boulevard in Davao City held posters calling for an inclusive peace agreement and negotiated settlement. They also wore individual cut-out letters that spelled out that “Mindanaons support the GPH-MILF peace talks.”
Yesterday, some 10,000 people from Central Mindanao also joined a caravan of some 500 vehicles that ceremonially sent-off the peace negotiators who flew to Kuala Lumpur to the the two-day talk. ###
April 27, 2011
The Davao City-based peace advocacy group Mindanao Peoples Caucus (MPC) has called on both the GPH and the MILF panels to focus their discussions in coming up with a mutually acceptable political formula that will finally resolve the root causes of the armed conflict in Mindanao.
MPC Chair Reu Montecillo, a protestant pastor from Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, said in a rally today that the peace panels should immediately deliver the working drafts of a peace agreement that address the Bangsamoro’s demand for self-governance, power and wealth-sharing rather than divert their attention on peripheral issues and technicalities.
Today, the government and MILF peace panels started the two-day 24th round of exploratory talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia amid pronouncement of government that it plans to conclude the already 12-year-old negotiations in the next 12 months.
Pastor Montecillo said that “since the timeframe set by the government to finally reach a negotiated settlement with the MILF is 12 months, there is a need to fast track the talks so that both panels can soon come up with an agreement on the substantial agenda of negotiation.”
The MILF has already laid down its proposal for a sub-state which will be governed by the Bangsamoro with corresponding details on power-sharing and resources-sharing, among others.
“We hope that this meeting in Malaysia will finally discuss the points in the comprehensive compact and that the next meeting of the GPH-MILF panel will be the formal negotiation that should logically lead to the signing of an inclusive peace agreement agreeable to both parties and acceptable to the majority of the stakeholders,” Montecillo stressed to a crowd of peace advocates that formed a “human chain for peace” in a crowded place fronting the biggest mall in Davao City.
The church minister called on “all church leaders of different churches in the Philippines and the world to support and pray for the success of the negotiations,” saying peace makers would “ultimately be blessed for their efforts in trying to realize the kingdom of God here on earth.”
Montecillo also requested the business sector to “take a pro-active role in ensuring that the peace process in Mindanao would succeed because a peaceful environment, no doubt, will always produce a climate conducive for investment and business.”
“Mindanao has unlimited untapped business potentials. Once there is peace, we are almost sure that business activity in Mindanao may be doubled, or, even tripled,” he said.
The peace advocates, who formed a 200-meter human chain along Quimpo Boulevard in Davao City held posters calling for an inclusive peace agreement and negotiated settlement. They also wore individual cut-out letters that spelled out that “Mindanaons support the GPH-MILF peace talks.”
Yesterday, some 10,000 people from Central Mindanao also joined a caravan of some 500 vehicles that ceremonially sent-off the peace negotiators who flew to Kuala Lumpur to the the two-day talk. ###
Mindanao CSOs Hold Peace Rallies in Support of GPH-MILF Talks in Malaysia
Carlo Cleofe
Mindanao civil society organizations led by the Mindanao Peoples Caucus (MPC), Mindanao Alliance for Peace (MAP), Bangsamoro Center for Just Peace (BCJP), and the Datu Piang Alliance for Peace will hold simultaneous mass mobilizations in Cotabato, Maguindanao, Kidapawan and Davao City in support of the next round of talks between the GPH-MILF peace panels which will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 27-28, 2011.
These actions are intended not just to show massive support on the peace talks but also to demand concrete results from the negotiations. In particular, civil society organizations are urging both government and MILF peace panels to deliver results of a negotiated political settlement in the next twelve months. Said period is the fair estimation of the peace panels within which to accomplish their mission of coming up with a peace agreement. Given this timetable, it is crucial that the public will be prepared to support the necessary outcome of the talks. Concerns with regards to continuing consultations and sustained information mechanisms are also being raised not just as a matter of necessity but also as a legal duty on the part of the government particularly the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP). These mechanisms, when already put in place, will regularly inform and update the stakeholders on the status, issues and necessary compromises in the negotiations.
The activity will start-off on April 26, 2011 with a “Walk for Peace” in Datu Piang Plaza, Maguindanao organized by the Datu Piang Alliance for Peace and will link up with the Peace Caravan organized by the Mindanao Alliance for Peace (MAP). The Peace Caravan will have a road show starting from Cotabato City, Tacurong, Isulan, Makilala and will culminate in Kidapawan City. The culmination program will be graced by the presence of Maguindanao Vice-Governor Hon. Datu Esmail Mastura and the International Monitoring Team (IMT) Head of Mission MGen Dato Mahdi Bin Yusof.
While on April 27, 2011 Davao based civil society organizations will have a “Human Chain for Peace” that will cover the whole stretch of Quimpo Boulevard starting from the corner of Tulip Drive to Mandaue Foam.
Mindanao civil society organizations led by the Mindanao Peoples Caucus (MPC), Mindanao Alliance for Peace (MAP), Bangsamoro Center for Just Peace (BCJP), and the Datu Piang Alliance for Peace will hold simultaneous mass mobilizations in Cotabato, Maguindanao, Kidapawan and Davao City in support of the next round of talks between the GPH-MILF peace panels which will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 27-28, 2011.
These actions are intended not just to show massive support on the peace talks but also to demand concrete results from the negotiations. In particular, civil society organizations are urging both government and MILF peace panels to deliver results of a negotiated political settlement in the next twelve months. Said period is the fair estimation of the peace panels within which to accomplish their mission of coming up with a peace agreement. Given this timetable, it is crucial that the public will be prepared to support the necessary outcome of the talks. Concerns with regards to continuing consultations and sustained information mechanisms are also being raised not just as a matter of necessity but also as a legal duty on the part of the government particularly the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP). These mechanisms, when already put in place, will regularly inform and update the stakeholders on the status, issues and necessary compromises in the negotiations.
The activity will start-off on April 26, 2011 with a “Walk for Peace” in Datu Piang Plaza, Maguindanao organized by the Datu Piang Alliance for Peace and will link up with the Peace Caravan organized by the Mindanao Alliance for Peace (MAP). The Peace Caravan will have a road show starting from Cotabato City, Tacurong, Isulan, Makilala and will culminate in Kidapawan City. The culmination program will be graced by the presence of Maguindanao Vice-Governor Hon. Datu Esmail Mastura and the International Monitoring Team (IMT) Head of Mission MGen Dato Mahdi Bin Yusof.
While on April 27, 2011 Davao based civil society organizations will have a “Human Chain for Peace” that will cover the whole stretch of Quimpo Boulevard starting from the corner of Tulip Drive to Mandaue Foam.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Alliance supports peace process; calls for unity and solidarity
By: Aiman A. Yusoph
April 23, 2011 - The local government of Datu Piang in Maguindanao led by Mayor Hadji Samer K. Uy, in partnership with the Bangsamoro Civil Society, Muslim and Christian religious leaders, leaders of internally displaced persons (IDPs), BCJP-Tiyakap Kawagib, Kadtuntaya Foundation, Inc. (KFI) has agreed during their recent meeting held at the field office of Non-Violent Peace Force to support the ongoing peace talks between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
The alliance also called for the end to “Rido” or family or clan feuds in Maguindanao.
The Datu Piang Alliance for Peace has adopted the theme: “The People of Datu Piang support the peace process and call for unity and solidarity”.
They also organized the Walk for Peace on April 26, 2011, whose purpose is to show concern and support for peace in Mindanao in general and in Maguindanao in particular.
Organizers described the walk for peace as an expression of the desire of all residents of Datu Piang for a long lasting peace in Mindanao.
The parade will start at 8:00am and winds up to 11:00am. It will mill around the town and culminates at the town plaza where a short program will be held.
This was disclosed to the media by Abdulbasit “Bobby” Benito, convenor and in charge of mass media for this activity.
Edward Diestro, Information Officer of Local Government of Unit of Datu Piang said during the radio interview over DXMY last Saturday by BCJP Executive Director Benito that it is expected that people from all walks of life, including women, religious sectors both Muslim and Christian, youths, civil society organizations, non-government organization, international non-government organization with field offices in Datu Piang, peoples will join the parade.
Also expected to join are government employees of the town.
Mayor Uy appealed to all citizens to join the activity.
The organizers also invited Atty. Zen Malang, Executive Director, Mindanao Human Rights Action Center ((MinHRAC) and to make the opening statement.
The invitation was signed by Guaimel M. Alim of CBCS, Fr. Lino Razon, OMI, of St. Teresita Parish Priest, Ustadz Macmod Tuan of Datu Piang, Edward Diestro, and Abbdulbasit R. Benito, requesting him to make the opening remark.
Benedick John Paul Z. Carandang, ABC President of Datu Piang municipality, expressed his support and has urged all the barangay chairmen of Datu Piang to participate in the activity.
In a related development, the Mindanao Alliance for Peace (MAP), in collaboration with the Bangsamoro Civil Society, is also sponsoring a similar activity, dubbed as “Send-Off Caravan for Just Peace”, as a gesture of support to the MILF peace panel which is slated to leave on April 25 to attend the 21st GPH-MILF peace talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 27-28-, 2011.
The caravan will be on April 26, 2011, following this route: from Marhaban, Salimbao Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, towards Cotabato City, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Talayan, Shariff Aguak, Esperanza, Isulan, Tacurong, Pres. Quirino, Buluan, Datu Paglas, Bagontapay, Makilala, Kidapawan, Matalam, Kabacan, Datu Montawal, Pagalungan, Pikit, Aleosan, Midsayap, Libungan, Pigcawayan and return to place of origin.
The assembly time will be 6:00 AM and the caravan will start moving at exactly 7:00 AM.
April 23, 2011 - The local government of Datu Piang in Maguindanao led by Mayor Hadji Samer K. Uy, in partnership with the Bangsamoro Civil Society, Muslim and Christian religious leaders, leaders of internally displaced persons (IDPs), BCJP-Tiyakap Kawagib, Kadtuntaya Foundation, Inc. (KFI) has agreed during their recent meeting held at the field office of Non-Violent Peace Force to support the ongoing peace talks between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
The alliance also called for the end to “Rido” or family or clan feuds in Maguindanao.
The Datu Piang Alliance for Peace has adopted the theme: “The People of Datu Piang support the peace process and call for unity and solidarity”.
They also organized the Walk for Peace on April 26, 2011, whose purpose is to show concern and support for peace in Mindanao in general and in Maguindanao in particular.
Organizers described the walk for peace as an expression of the desire of all residents of Datu Piang for a long lasting peace in Mindanao.
The parade will start at 8:00am and winds up to 11:00am. It will mill around the town and culminates at the town plaza where a short program will be held.
This was disclosed to the media by Abdulbasit “Bobby” Benito, convenor and in charge of mass media for this activity.
Edward Diestro, Information Officer of Local Government of Unit of Datu Piang said during the radio interview over DXMY last Saturday by BCJP Executive Director Benito that it is expected that people from all walks of life, including women, religious sectors both Muslim and Christian, youths, civil society organizations, non-government organization, international non-government organization with field offices in Datu Piang, peoples will join the parade.
Also expected to join are government employees of the town.
Mayor Uy appealed to all citizens to join the activity.
The organizers also invited Atty. Zen Malang, Executive Director, Mindanao Human Rights Action Center ((MinHRAC) and to make the opening statement.
The invitation was signed by Guaimel M. Alim of CBCS, Fr. Lino Razon, OMI, of St. Teresita Parish Priest, Ustadz Macmod Tuan of Datu Piang, Edward Diestro, and Abbdulbasit R. Benito, requesting him to make the opening remark.
Benedick John Paul Z. Carandang, ABC President of Datu Piang municipality, expressed his support and has urged all the barangay chairmen of Datu Piang to participate in the activity.
In a related development, the Mindanao Alliance for Peace (MAP), in collaboration with the Bangsamoro Civil Society, is also sponsoring a similar activity, dubbed as “Send-Off Caravan for Just Peace”, as a gesture of support to the MILF peace panel which is slated to leave on April 25 to attend the 21st GPH-MILF peace talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 27-28-, 2011.
The caravan will be on April 26, 2011, following this route: from Marhaban, Salimbao Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, towards Cotabato City, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Talayan, Shariff Aguak, Esperanza, Isulan, Tacurong, Pres. Quirino, Buluan, Datu Paglas, Bagontapay, Makilala, Kidapawan, Matalam, Kabacan, Datu Montawal, Pagalungan, Pikit, Aleosan, Midsayap, Libungan, Pigcawayan and return to place of origin.
The assembly time will be 6:00 AM and the caravan will start moving at exactly 7:00 AM.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
NPP-BCJP intensifies its community based HR programs
By Muhammad Musa
April 13, 2011 - The Nonviolent Peaceforce Philippines (NPP) and the Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace Inc. (BCJP) are intensifying their Human Rights (HR) program in the grassroots level through organizing rigid seminars and trainings in the community that were commonly affected by conflict and prone to human rights violations.
In terms of capacity building, theNPPis supportingthe BCJP’s Tiyakap Kagawib (Care for Rights), a local grassroots monitor led by a civilian group, which has been setup in several areas in Mindanao.
The NPP and the BCJP are working towards peace and human rights.
In February 2011, NPP, in collaboration with BCJP, hosted a “basic human rights training” in its field office in Datu Piang, Maguindanao. The training targeted both NPP’s partners such as the Annisa Peace Organisation (APO), Magungaya Mindanao Inc.(MMI) and their local monitoring structure, the Tiyakap Kawagib.
The participants came from the municipalities of Datu Piang, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Guindulungan, Maguindanao.
The presenters in the trainings were members of NPP’sMaguindanao field team from its Conflict Prevention Program, the NPP’s Main Office based in Cotabato City,the BCJP, and theInstitute for Bangsamoro Studies (IBS), Mindanao Peoples’ Caucus (MPC), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the International Monitoring Team (IMT).
Abdulbasit R. Benito, the BCJP Executive Director, said that their partnership with NPP was not limited to trainings,it includes making of publication andpeace-building activities.
The NPP is also supporting the efforts of BCJP and the Kadtuntaya Foundation Incorporated (KFI) to organize a ‘peace walk’ in Datu Piang, Maguindanao aimed at providing space for dialogue with the local government units, religious leaders, IDP leaders and business community members.
Nonviolent Peaceforce is an unarmedcivilian peacekeeping force that is invited to work in conflict zones worldwide. NP is sent to conflict areas to prevent death and destruction and protect human rights, thus creating the space for local groups to struggle nonviolently, enter into dialogue and seek peaceful resolution. They help to maintain ceasefires and advance the peace process. The Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace is a human rights and peace advocate organization that operates in Central Mindanao and founded in 2004. It is a founding member of the Center for JustPeace in Asia, (CJPA) a network of an interfaith peace movement in South Asia based in Hong Kong andis an active member of the Mindanao Human Rights Action Center (MinHRAC) and the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society-Kutawato Regional Management Center (KRMC).
BCJP along withother Moro civil society and non government organizations is supporting the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace process.
April 13, 2011 - The Nonviolent Peaceforce Philippines (NPP) and the Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace Inc. (BCJP) are intensifying their Human Rights (HR) program in the grassroots level through organizing rigid seminars and trainings in the community that were commonly affected by conflict and prone to human rights violations.
In terms of capacity building, theNPPis supportingthe BCJP’s Tiyakap Kagawib (Care for Rights), a local grassroots monitor led by a civilian group, which has been setup in several areas in Mindanao.
The NPP and the BCJP are working towards peace and human rights.
In February 2011, NPP, in collaboration with BCJP, hosted a “basic human rights training” in its field office in Datu Piang, Maguindanao. The training targeted both NPP’s partners such as the Annisa Peace Organisation (APO), Magungaya Mindanao Inc.(MMI) and their local monitoring structure, the Tiyakap Kawagib.
The participants came from the municipalities of Datu Piang, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Guindulungan, Maguindanao.
The presenters in the trainings were members of NPP’sMaguindanao field team from its Conflict Prevention Program, the NPP’s Main Office based in Cotabato City,the BCJP, and theInstitute for Bangsamoro Studies (IBS), Mindanao Peoples’ Caucus (MPC), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the International Monitoring Team (IMT).
Abdulbasit R. Benito, the BCJP Executive Director, said that their partnership with NPP was not limited to trainings,it includes making of publication andpeace-building activities.
The NPP is also supporting the efforts of BCJP and the Kadtuntaya Foundation Incorporated (KFI) to organize a ‘peace walk’ in Datu Piang, Maguindanao aimed at providing space for dialogue with the local government units, religious leaders, IDP leaders and business community members.
Nonviolent Peaceforce is an unarmedcivilian peacekeeping force that is invited to work in conflict zones worldwide. NP is sent to conflict areas to prevent death and destruction and protect human rights, thus creating the space for local groups to struggle nonviolently, enter into dialogue and seek peaceful resolution. They help to maintain ceasefires and advance the peace process. The Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace is a human rights and peace advocate organization that operates in Central Mindanao and founded in 2004. It is a founding member of the Center for JustPeace in Asia, (CJPA) a network of an interfaith peace movement in South Asia based in Hong Kong andis an active member of the Mindanao Human Rights Action Center (MinHRAC) and the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society-Kutawato Regional Management Center (KRMC).
BCJP along withother Moro civil society and non government organizations is supporting the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace process.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Center for Justpeace in the Phil's.
PEACE is more than the absence of war or overt violence. It is also the REALIZATION of JUSTICE where respect for fundamental rights and freedom of person is experienced.
BCJP Press Statement RE: SULU CRISIS
Thursday, April 26, 2007 9:07 AM
Press StatementApril 23, 2007
BOOBY BENITO
Coordinator
Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace in the Phils. Inc.
09197245492
GIVE PEACE A CHANCE IN MINDANAO;
RESOLVE THE WAR IN SULU NOW!
The Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace in the Phil’s. Inc. (BCJP) is appealing to the Philippine government for an immediate ceasefire with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and come up with immediate steps to prevent the escalation of the armed conflict in Sulu and respond to the humanitarian needs of some 50,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) from eight towns of the island province.
BCJP also appreciate the initiative from the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and from the Initiatives for International Dialogue (IID) for their united stand in this issue: calling the government and MNLF to cease fighting and talk to resolve their differences in the negotiating table.
The present hostilities going into the second week, wherein military blamed the Moro National Liberation Front under Habier Malik for attacking the Marines camp in Panamao last April 13. But reports from other sources said Malik was provoked when the Marines attacked his camp last April 11 allegedly in pursuit of the Abu Sayyaf.
Another sources traced the present clash to a series of massacres of Moro families in Indanan and Patikul towns as told by MNLF State Chairman Khaid Ajibon and Ustadz Zain Jali, chairman of the Bangsamoro People’s Congress. Malik is an area commander under Khaid Ajibon.
In this battle for airing out of issues, the Bangsamoro are at the disadvantage since the military has the Manila media awaiting its press releases. As for the Bangsamoro who has limited access to media usually get the popular blame, thus their cynicism against the national government and the military – and even against the Christians – deepens and hardens.
On the other hand, not only Christians, but BCJP and some Muslim religious leaders condemn Abu Sayyaf barbarism in the recent beheading of seven hostages in Parang, Sulu. They were as outraged as President Arroyo, who vowed for the time to obliterate the Abu Sayyaf. That outrage, to most Filipinos, justifies the pursuit of Malik and his forces – the rogue MNLF – to the end. But people should be made to understand that what is in the papers is not the whole truth. Its one sided in favor of the government.
The hostilities have already disrupted the election campaign. The evacuation -- now estimated to be as large as 50,000 -- can disenfranchise many voters. All these are happening in MNLF- influenced communities and will adversely affect Misuari’s chances of winning in the coming election
Our Role in the May 2007 Election
Monday, April 23, 2007 4:55 PM
BCJP is decided to participate in whatever capacity in the forthcomong Matt 2007 election. Financially, we are delpleted, but our didication and commitment cannot stop by financial constraints as it was proven in the past. We were able to compete with other Huge networks and organizations who has financially stable in terms of advocacy. Last February, BCJP was very glad when the Asia Foundation throuh the CBCS invited in a Call to Proposal for ElecReform Program being funded by the USAUD. dyring the meeting in Estosan Hotel in Cotabato City, 1 participant asked question will the The Asia Foundation priorize their partners for approval. Tatine of TAF categorically answered that not in their criteria for approval. 2 months after, it was found out that all proposal from not member was rejected. It was the UNYPAD and CBCS proposal has been approved. For the second time around, we are victim of discrimination. I expereinced this when I was an Executive Director of some NGO. TAF asked me to submit proposal, after complying all the required documents, with no explaination, the Asia Foundation simply said. Your proposal is no more acceptable because the contract for the project was ended.
BCJP Relief and Rehab initiatives for Pagalungan IDPs
Monday, April 23, 2007 4:34 PM
RAIDAH ABUBAKAR, BCJP Relief and Rehab Program officer initiated and convened different relief organizations in Cotabato City to provide relief assistnace for more than 1,000 families displaced by armed conflict between the Matalam and Montawal clan in Pagalungan, Maguindanao. at first, Ms. Abubakar called up CFSI, BDA, MERN and Save The Children where she inquired about their plan in response to the IDPs situation. meeting was called up by the Save the Children, CFSI and other relief organizations. during the planning meeting on April 16 at SC office, MERN through UNYPAD and Save the Children tandem were able to distributed non food assistance in Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao. This initiaves made by UNYPAD and SC raised so many questions to RAIDAH. BCJP is an official memebre of MERN, but most of MERN activities, BCJP was not informed nor invited. One question is what is the participation of members? is it the UNYPAD only? Save the Children? Nevertheless, the issues would not stop BCJP from its Pro activtive participation with the activities. we are doing this because our people are sufferings..
JustPeace ACTIVITY REPORT
Tuesday, April 03, 2007 6:44 PM
Activities:
: Peace Dialogue
: Peace Rally
: Relief Distribution
: Medical Mission
Date Covered : March 2007
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ACTIVITY:
Ø Advocacy for the implementation of the January 29, 2007. (8 points Consensus Resolutions) on Midsayap conflict has been highlighted through:
• Peace dialogued with the Military, MILF-CCCH and stakeholders in Southern Chtistian College (SCC)-Midsayap
• Peace Rally during the commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre
• Radio Program “Bitiala Kalilintad” over Radio Station DXMY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Relief Distribution to be headed by the Al Ihsan Foundation on March 19, 2007 in Barangay Sambulawan, Lomopog and Kapimpilan, Midsyap, Cotabato
Medical Mission to be headed by the UNYPAD on March 21 at Barangay Sambulawan, Midsayap.
Peace Rally in commemoration to the Jabidah Massacre to be spearheaded by the BCJP and MBDRFI on March 18, 2007
Presentation of the accomplishment to Jan Nielen of CORDAID on March 21. UNYPHIL – men was tasked to present to be assisted by MBDRFI
Accomplishment:
Ø A motorcade with rekorida of at least 10 vehicles were able to mobilized by the CBCS-KRMC member organizations from People Palace going to Cotabato City plaza on March 18, 2007
Ø Peace Rally at Cotabato City plaza on March 18, 2007 – CBCS tasked the BCJP to represent the CBCS in the speakers. Dondon Banzali represent the CBCS while Mayor Mus Sema represent the MNLF.
Ø Relief assistance distributed to more or less 1,000 Families of IDPS in Barangay Sabulawan, Midsyaap Cotabato headed by the Al Ihsan
Ø More than 100 families of IDPs were able to received Medicines and medical check up from the Medical Mission headed by the UNYPAD in Barangay Sambulawan, Midsayap Cotabato on March 21, 2007
Ø CBCS was able to participate in the CODE NGO Congress in Ateneo De manila University and UP Diliman Quezon City represented by the Al Ihsan and BCJP
OVERVIEW OF the bangsamoro youth congress
Friday, March 30, 2007 10:16 PM
Bangsamoro Youth Congress
To strengthen unity of the Bangsamoro Youth
Theme:
"Breaking Barries: Building bridges of Understanding and Cooperation"
It is an attempt to strengthen the unity of 13 Bangsamoro ethno linguistic tribes & group that were separated and divided by their cultural/traditional differences and geographical location
Objectives
To develop a process of consultation and dialogue from a broad range of identified Bangsamoro youth leaders in Mindanao;
To promote unity and alliance among Bangsamoro youth, their organizations
To create at least five venues for dialogue and advocacy between the youth and the government and MILF peace panels
To discuss particular and common issues affecting the young people
To share ideas, stories, culture, passions, longings, and struggles
To look into their respective and common condition experiences from their own perspective
Main Activity
To hold a 3 days activity called “Bangsamoro Youth Congress” as culminating activities of the caucus which will be chosen from the different organization who participated in the consultation. The said congress it self will benefit at least fifty (50) participants who are chosen from the series of cluster caucus.
Major activities
Conveners Meeting
Cluster Caucus
Bangsamoro Youth Congress
Target Participants
18-25 years of age
Decision-maker of their Organization
Tribal and geographical Representation
Expected Output
developed alliances with peace groups Popularized the call for a strong and meaningful participation of the youth and
The Bangsamoro youth and children have established a solid alliance and strengthened their role in order to collectively reassert their legal and fundamental rights to determine their own future and political status vis-à-vis the on-going peace talks.
The Conveners Meeting
UNYPAD Inc
MINSED Foundation
UnYPhil Inc.
UnYPhil-Women
MYRO
MYB
BCJP
Cluster Caucus
Central Mindanao
Venue: Fiesta Cotabato , Cotabato City
Date: November 18,2006
Participated by 23 persons representing 11 youth organizations from different provinces in Central Mindanao
SoCSarGen CLUSTER
Venue: Isla Parilla, Alabel, Sarangani;
Date: December 22, 2006
Participated by 23 youth leaders from 10 Youth organizations from Different provinces in SoCSarGen.areas
Davao Region
Venue: Norul Hidaya, Upper Salazar, Mati, Davao Oriental;
Date: December 28, 2006
Participated by 22 youth leaders from 7 Youth organizations from Different provinces in Eastern Mindanao Region
Outputs FROM THE 3 CLUSTER CAUCUS
Overview of the project has been presented (e.g. Proposal submitted to HATAG KALINAW competition & shirt listing, online voting and defend to the panel)
Provide inputs on Bangsamoro situation
Inputs on Conflict Transformation (Moro Perspective)
Inputs: Children’s Rights : Islamic & Non-Islamic Perspective
WORKSHOPS (on particular issues that is commonly affecting the Bangsamoro youth)
Have shared ideas, stories, culture, passions, longings, and struggles
Identified common recommendations/alternatives (to be discussed during the proper Bangsamoro Youth Congress)
Position Paper addressed to the GRP & MILF Peace Panel to continue the impasse peace process
One representative was able to attend in a 3 to 4 months long SCHOOL OF PEACE in Bangalore, India
Has been discussed in the Media through several interviews (DXMS & DXMY)
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Phil’s. Inc.
Monday, March 26, 2007 11:41 AM
Organizational Profile
A Brief history:
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Philippines was established out of the need for complex Human Rights issues, Peace and Development and Environmental problems of the Bangsamoro communities in the Philippines. This initiative of dynamic Peace, Human Rights and Environmental Advocates create an atmosphere for a collaborative effort of the Bangsamoro youth and people’s organizations and other social entities in working together for comprehensive and non-violent solutions to the present social and economic crisis in the poor and marginalized communities in the country.
Organized in late 2003, CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE has been registered to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as non-profit, non-stock and non-political organization, where environmental issues, peace and development as well as gender issue are its primary concern.
In the last Three (3) years of operation, CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE has already significantly acquired, developed and enriched its experiences in various fields such as:
ADVOCACY/CAMPAIGN/NETWORKING
PEACEBUILDING
&
INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING
CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE Advocacy is done in close collaboration with multi sectoral groups that has concerns with Human Rights, Peace and Development, Gender, Environmental protection and the differently able Persons.
CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE is a member—network of the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS), Mindanao People Caucus (MPC), Mindanao Emergency Response Network (MERN), Kutawatu Coalition of Development NGO (K-CODE), Cotabato City Transparent and Accountable Network (CCTAN), Bantay Ceasefire, Mindanao Invisible Link - Cotabato Cluster and Tiyakap Kalilintad
Convenor/Founding member of Young Moro Forum (YMF), Mindanao Interfaith Human Rights Advocates (MIHRA), Taskforce Tiyakap Mindanao (TTM)., Mindanao Interfaith Coalition Against Injustice (MICAI) and founding member of the CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE IN ASIA, a network of peace movement from all over Asia based in Hong Kong Sar.
VISION
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Philippines Inc. (BCJP) envisions a community where people live in harmony, peace and in tranquility through individual, family, social and community transformation.
MISSION
To identify individuals and groups who are involved with grassroots communities using traditional methods of peacemaking, conflict transformation and development and to help create critical solidarity and collaboration among these groups to help counter the various forces of oppression and exploitation of natural resources work and defend the rights of the marginalized Bangsamoro communities and facilitate their initiatives to uplift their living condition
GOAL
Established a Self Reliant community that promotes peace; enjoy human rights; observe justice; equality and freedom; and protects environment through culturally relevant peacemaking, peacebuilding conflict transformation and development
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
1. Document Human Rights and environmental abuses in the communities where few other organizations can safely operate
2. Strengthen unity among Bangsamoro Civil Society Organization and indigenous peoples groups.
3. Uphold and defend the rights and welfare of the marginalized sector of society
4. Launch educational campaigns aim at raising the consciousness of the Bangsamoro people and their communities on issues affecting their lives
5. Support and participate in any non-violent solution of the Bangsamoro people for genuine development and Justpeace restoration in Mindanao
6. To mobilize financial resources for community-based development project and support self-reliant efforts of the community
7. To foster interfaith and inter tribe dialogue with the purpose of developing a common contemporary challenges.
Present Programs:
Human Rights:
Human Rights Violation Documentation - Bangsamoro Political detainees and other victims of abduction – in collaboration with the Taskforce Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP and the Consortium of the Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS)
Advocacy/Campaign
a. Against Anti-Terror Bill –
b. Anti E.O 546
c. Supporting the Anti Torture Bill
Through a series of Fora, Symposia and Seminars, Signature Campaign, Press Releases/Statement/Conferences - target of this activity is the Civil Society Organization, Students, the Academe and the Moro communities – assisted by the taskforce Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP)
Human Rights Education/Orientation – Beneficiaries of these initiatives were various civic, sectoral and religious organization and Moro in Davao Oriental province- in collaboration with the taskforce Detainees of the Philippines. (TFDP)
Peacebuilding:
Bangsamoro Youth Congress – an attempt to unite Bangsamoro youth from the 13 ethno-linguistic groups divided by cultural/traditional practices and geographic location. The project assisted by the British Council through its HATAG KALINAW Mindanao program. Major provinces in Mindanao who are dominated by Moro were clustered into 4, Cluster 1 comprising Central Mindanao, Cluster 2 is SoCSarGen, Cluster 3 Eastern Mindanao and Cluster 4 is Western Mindanao. After cluster caucus for these 4 clusters, Bangsamoro Youth Congress will be conducted as culminating activities where the major issues and concerns as well as the recommendations from the caucus will be discussed and given due action which will be identified by the participants in the Congress.
Awareness Raising on the GRP-MILF Peace Process - To strengthen the participation of the Bangsamoro youth in the GRP-MILF peace talks with the end in view of responding to the special needs and protection of children in armed conflict situation. The project is supported by the Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
Launching of a Young Moro Forum – Series of Youth consultation to the Bangsamoro youth it will be culminated in a launching of the Young Moro Forum – in partnership with the Mindanao People Caucus (MPC)
School Of Peace – identify and send participants to attend 4 – months School Of Peace in Bangalore, India to encourage young people from around Asia to become agents of transformation in the task of building cultures and communities of justpeace. – the project is supported by the Center for Justpeace in Asia (CJPA)
Conceptualization and Development of Module/Manual of Culture of Peace in a Moro Perspectives
People with Disability Empowerment – the project is supported by the Handicap International (HI) where differently people persons organize and train.
BCJP Press Statement RE: SULU CRISIS
Thursday, April 26, 2007 9:07 AM
Press StatementApril 23, 2007
BOOBY BENITO
Coordinator
Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace in the Phils. Inc.
09197245492
GIVE PEACE A CHANCE IN MINDANAO;
RESOLVE THE WAR IN SULU NOW!
The Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace in the Phil’s. Inc. (BCJP) is appealing to the Philippine government for an immediate ceasefire with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and come up with immediate steps to prevent the escalation of the armed conflict in Sulu and respond to the humanitarian needs of some 50,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) from eight towns of the island province.
BCJP also appreciate the initiative from the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and from the Initiatives for International Dialogue (IID) for their united stand in this issue: calling the government and MNLF to cease fighting and talk to resolve their differences in the negotiating table.
The present hostilities going into the second week, wherein military blamed the Moro National Liberation Front under Habier Malik for attacking the Marines camp in Panamao last April 13. But reports from other sources said Malik was provoked when the Marines attacked his camp last April 11 allegedly in pursuit of the Abu Sayyaf.
Another sources traced the present clash to a series of massacres of Moro families in Indanan and Patikul towns as told by MNLF State Chairman Khaid Ajibon and Ustadz Zain Jali, chairman of the Bangsamoro People’s Congress. Malik is an area commander under Khaid Ajibon.
In this battle for airing out of issues, the Bangsamoro are at the disadvantage since the military has the Manila media awaiting its press releases. As for the Bangsamoro who has limited access to media usually get the popular blame, thus their cynicism against the national government and the military – and even against the Christians – deepens and hardens.
On the other hand, not only Christians, but BCJP and some Muslim religious leaders condemn Abu Sayyaf barbarism in the recent beheading of seven hostages in Parang, Sulu. They were as outraged as President Arroyo, who vowed for the time to obliterate the Abu Sayyaf. That outrage, to most Filipinos, justifies the pursuit of Malik and his forces – the rogue MNLF – to the end. But people should be made to understand that what is in the papers is not the whole truth. Its one sided in favor of the government.
The hostilities have already disrupted the election campaign. The evacuation -- now estimated to be as large as 50,000 -- can disenfranchise many voters. All these are happening in MNLF- influenced communities and will adversely affect Misuari’s chances of winning in the coming election
Our Role in the May 2007 Election
Monday, April 23, 2007 4:55 PM
BCJP is decided to participate in whatever capacity in the forthcomong Matt 2007 election. Financially, we are delpleted, but our didication and commitment cannot stop by financial constraints as it was proven in the past. We were able to compete with other Huge networks and organizations who has financially stable in terms of advocacy. Last February, BCJP was very glad when the Asia Foundation throuh the CBCS invited in a Call to Proposal for ElecReform Program being funded by the USAUD. dyring the meeting in Estosan Hotel in Cotabato City, 1 participant asked question will the The Asia Foundation priorize their partners for approval. Tatine of TAF categorically answered that not in their criteria for approval. 2 months after, it was found out that all proposal from not member was rejected. It was the UNYPAD and CBCS proposal has been approved. For the second time around, we are victim of discrimination. I expereinced this when I was an Executive Director of some NGO. TAF asked me to submit proposal, after complying all the required documents, with no explaination, the Asia Foundation simply said. Your proposal is no more acceptable because the contract for the project was ended.
BCJP Relief and Rehab initiatives for Pagalungan IDPs
Monday, April 23, 2007 4:34 PM
RAIDAH ABUBAKAR, BCJP Relief and Rehab Program officer initiated and convened different relief organizations in Cotabato City to provide relief assistnace for more than 1,000 families displaced by armed conflict between the Matalam and Montawal clan in Pagalungan, Maguindanao. at first, Ms. Abubakar called up CFSI, BDA, MERN and Save The Children where she inquired about their plan in response to the IDPs situation. meeting was called up by the Save the Children, CFSI and other relief organizations. during the planning meeting on April 16 at SC office, MERN through UNYPAD and Save the Children tandem were able to distributed non food assistance in Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao. This initiaves made by UNYPAD and SC raised so many questions to RAIDAH. BCJP is an official memebre of MERN, but most of MERN activities, BCJP was not informed nor invited. One question is what is the participation of members? is it the UNYPAD only? Save the Children? Nevertheless, the issues would not stop BCJP from its Pro activtive participation with the activities. we are doing this because our people are sufferings..
JustPeace ACTIVITY REPORT
Tuesday, April 03, 2007 6:44 PM
Activities:
: Peace Dialogue
: Peace Rally
: Relief Distribution
: Medical Mission
Date Covered : March 2007
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ACTIVITY:
Ø Advocacy for the implementation of the January 29, 2007. (8 points Consensus Resolutions) on Midsayap conflict has been highlighted through:
• Peace dialogued with the Military, MILF-CCCH and stakeholders in Southern Chtistian College (SCC)-Midsayap
• Peace Rally during the commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre
• Radio Program “Bitiala Kalilintad” over Radio Station DXMY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Relief Distribution to be headed by the Al Ihsan Foundation on March 19, 2007 in Barangay Sambulawan, Lomopog and Kapimpilan, Midsyap, Cotabato
Medical Mission to be headed by the UNYPAD on March 21 at Barangay Sambulawan, Midsayap.
Peace Rally in commemoration to the Jabidah Massacre to be spearheaded by the BCJP and MBDRFI on March 18, 2007
Presentation of the accomplishment to Jan Nielen of CORDAID on March 21. UNYPHIL – men was tasked to present to be assisted by MBDRFI
Accomplishment:
Ø A motorcade with rekorida of at least 10 vehicles were able to mobilized by the CBCS-KRMC member organizations from People Palace going to Cotabato City plaza on March 18, 2007
Ø Peace Rally at Cotabato City plaza on March 18, 2007 – CBCS tasked the BCJP to represent the CBCS in the speakers. Dondon Banzali represent the CBCS while Mayor Mus Sema represent the MNLF.
Ø Relief assistance distributed to more or less 1,000 Families of IDPS in Barangay Sabulawan, Midsyaap Cotabato headed by the Al Ihsan
Ø More than 100 families of IDPs were able to received Medicines and medical check up from the Medical Mission headed by the UNYPAD in Barangay Sambulawan, Midsayap Cotabato on March 21, 2007
Ø CBCS was able to participate in the CODE NGO Congress in Ateneo De manila University and UP Diliman Quezon City represented by the Al Ihsan and BCJP
OVERVIEW OF the bangsamoro youth congress
Friday, March 30, 2007 10:16 PM
Bangsamoro Youth Congress
To strengthen unity of the Bangsamoro Youth
Theme:
"Breaking Barries: Building bridges of Understanding and Cooperation"
It is an attempt to strengthen the unity of 13 Bangsamoro ethno linguistic tribes & group that were separated and divided by their cultural/traditional differences and geographical location
Objectives
To develop a process of consultation and dialogue from a broad range of identified Bangsamoro youth leaders in Mindanao;
To promote unity and alliance among Bangsamoro youth, their organizations
To create at least five venues for dialogue and advocacy between the youth and the government and MILF peace panels
To discuss particular and common issues affecting the young people
To share ideas, stories, culture, passions, longings, and struggles
To look into their respective and common condition experiences from their own perspective
Main Activity
To hold a 3 days activity called “Bangsamoro Youth Congress” as culminating activities of the caucus which will be chosen from the different organization who participated in the consultation. The said congress it self will benefit at least fifty (50) participants who are chosen from the series of cluster caucus.
Major activities
Conveners Meeting
Cluster Caucus
Bangsamoro Youth Congress
Target Participants
18-25 years of age
Decision-maker of their Organization
Tribal and geographical Representation
Expected Output
developed alliances with peace groups Popularized the call for a strong and meaningful participation of the youth and
The Bangsamoro youth and children have established a solid alliance and strengthened their role in order to collectively reassert their legal and fundamental rights to determine their own future and political status vis-à-vis the on-going peace talks.
The Conveners Meeting
UNYPAD Inc
MINSED Foundation
UnYPhil Inc.
UnYPhil-Women
MYRO
MYB
BCJP
Cluster Caucus
Central Mindanao
Venue: Fiesta Cotabato , Cotabato City
Date: November 18,2006
Participated by 23 persons representing 11 youth organizations from different provinces in Central Mindanao
SoCSarGen CLUSTER
Venue: Isla Parilla, Alabel, Sarangani;
Date: December 22, 2006
Participated by 23 youth leaders from 10 Youth organizations from Different provinces in SoCSarGen.areas
Davao Region
Venue: Norul Hidaya, Upper Salazar, Mati, Davao Oriental;
Date: December 28, 2006
Participated by 22 youth leaders from 7 Youth organizations from Different provinces in Eastern Mindanao Region
Outputs FROM THE 3 CLUSTER CAUCUS
Overview of the project has been presented (e.g. Proposal submitted to HATAG KALINAW competition & shirt listing, online voting and defend to the panel)
Provide inputs on Bangsamoro situation
Inputs on Conflict Transformation (Moro Perspective)
Inputs: Children’s Rights : Islamic & Non-Islamic Perspective
WORKSHOPS (on particular issues that is commonly affecting the Bangsamoro youth)
Have shared ideas, stories, culture, passions, longings, and struggles
Identified common recommendations/alternatives (to be discussed during the proper Bangsamoro Youth Congress)
Position Paper addressed to the GRP & MILF Peace Panel to continue the impasse peace process
One representative was able to attend in a 3 to 4 months long SCHOOL OF PEACE in Bangalore, India
Has been discussed in the Media through several interviews (DXMS & DXMY)
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Phil’s. Inc.
Monday, March 26, 2007 11:41 AM
Organizational Profile
A Brief history:
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Philippines was established out of the need for complex Human Rights issues, Peace and Development and Environmental problems of the Bangsamoro communities in the Philippines. This initiative of dynamic Peace, Human Rights and Environmental Advocates create an atmosphere for a collaborative effort of the Bangsamoro youth and people’s organizations and other social entities in working together for comprehensive and non-violent solutions to the present social and economic crisis in the poor and marginalized communities in the country.
Organized in late 2003, CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE has been registered to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as non-profit, non-stock and non-political organization, where environmental issues, peace and development as well as gender issue are its primary concern.
In the last Three (3) years of operation, CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE has already significantly acquired, developed and enriched its experiences in various fields such as:
ADVOCACY/CAMPAIGN/NETWORKING
PEACEBUILDING
&
INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING
CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE Advocacy is done in close collaboration with multi sectoral groups that has concerns with Human Rights, Peace and Development, Gender, Environmental protection and the differently able Persons.
CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE is a member—network of the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS), Mindanao People Caucus (MPC), Mindanao Emergency Response Network (MERN), Kutawatu Coalition of Development NGO (K-CODE), Cotabato City Transparent and Accountable Network (CCTAN), Bantay Ceasefire, Mindanao Invisible Link - Cotabato Cluster and Tiyakap Kalilintad
Convenor/Founding member of Young Moro Forum (YMF), Mindanao Interfaith Human Rights Advocates (MIHRA), Taskforce Tiyakap Mindanao (TTM)., Mindanao Interfaith Coalition Against Injustice (MICAI) and founding member of the CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE IN ASIA, a network of peace movement from all over Asia based in Hong Kong Sar.
VISION
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Philippines Inc. (BCJP) envisions a community where people live in harmony, peace and in tranquility through individual, family, social and community transformation.
MISSION
To identify individuals and groups who are involved with grassroots communities using traditional methods of peacemaking, conflict transformation and development and to help create critical solidarity and collaboration among these groups to help counter the various forces of oppression and exploitation of natural resources work and defend the rights of the marginalized Bangsamoro communities and facilitate their initiatives to uplift their living condition
GOAL
Established a Self Reliant community that promotes peace; enjoy human rights; observe justice; equality and freedom; and protects environment through culturally relevant peacemaking, peacebuilding conflict transformation and development
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
1. Document Human Rights and environmental abuses in the communities where few other organizations can safely operate
2. Strengthen unity among Bangsamoro Civil Society Organization and indigenous peoples groups.
3. Uphold and defend the rights and welfare of the marginalized sector of society
4. Launch educational campaigns aim at raising the consciousness of the Bangsamoro people and their communities on issues affecting their lives
5. Support and participate in any non-violent solution of the Bangsamoro people for genuine development and Justpeace restoration in Mindanao
6. To mobilize financial resources for community-based development project and support self-reliant efforts of the community
7. To foster interfaith and inter tribe dialogue with the purpose of developing a common contemporary challenges.
Present Programs:
Human Rights:
Human Rights Violation Documentation - Bangsamoro Political detainees and other victims of abduction – in collaboration with the Taskforce Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP and the Consortium of the Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS)
Advocacy/Campaign
a. Against Anti-Terror Bill –
b. Anti E.O 546
c. Supporting the Anti Torture Bill
Through a series of Fora, Symposia and Seminars, Signature Campaign, Press Releases/Statement/Conferences - target of this activity is the Civil Society Organization, Students, the Academe and the Moro communities – assisted by the taskforce Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP)
Human Rights Education/Orientation – Beneficiaries of these initiatives were various civic, sectoral and religious organization and Moro in Davao Oriental province- in collaboration with the taskforce Detainees of the Philippines. (TFDP)
Peacebuilding:
Bangsamoro Youth Congress – an attempt to unite Bangsamoro youth from the 13 ethno-linguistic groups divided by cultural/traditional practices and geographic location. The project assisted by the British Council through its HATAG KALINAW Mindanao program. Major provinces in Mindanao who are dominated by Moro were clustered into 4, Cluster 1 comprising Central Mindanao, Cluster 2 is SoCSarGen, Cluster 3 Eastern Mindanao and Cluster 4 is Western Mindanao. After cluster caucus for these 4 clusters, Bangsamoro Youth Congress will be conducted as culminating activities where the major issues and concerns as well as the recommendations from the caucus will be discussed and given due action which will be identified by the participants in the Congress.
Awareness Raising on the GRP-MILF Peace Process - To strengthen the participation of the Bangsamoro youth in the GRP-MILF peace talks with the end in view of responding to the special needs and protection of children in armed conflict situation. The project is supported by the Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
Launching of a Young Moro Forum – Series of Youth consultation to the Bangsamoro youth it will be culminated in a launching of the Young Moro Forum – in partnership with the Mindanao People Caucus (MPC)
School Of Peace – identify and send participants to attend 4 – months School Of Peace in Bangalore, India to encourage young people from around Asia to become agents of transformation in the task of building cultures and communities of justpeace. – the project is supported by the Center for Justpeace in Asia (CJPA)
Conceptualization and Development of Module/Manual of Culture of Peace in a Moro Perspectives
People with Disability Empowerment – the project is supported by the Handicap International (HI) where differently people persons organize and train.
Moro CSO: Reform ARMM, support the peace process, call for solidarity
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Tuesday, March 22, 2011
BCJP Calls for Peace in the Middle East
BCJP Call for peace in the Middle East
The Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP) condemns the US-led war of aggressions against the people of Libya. This wide scope military action to intervene the internal conflict between the government of President Muammar Quaddafi and the opposition was done by virtue of a UN Resolution that resulted in the operation called "Operations Odyssey Dawn".
To bomb Libya, in order to overthrow the Kaddafi government on the pretext of “humanitarian intervention is total hypocrisy and will only worsen the situation. Why are these great western powers exhibiting such concern for the seven million or so Libyans?
Aside from the truth having been exposed especially with regard to the invasion and occupation of Iraq, why these powers were not concerned about the lives lost and the destruction wreaked on Gaza when it was being bombarded by Israel in 2009, or when Palestinian refugees were massacred in Sabra-Shatilla in 1982? Why are they not as quick to condemn and call for international intervention - diplomatic, economic and military – against the continuing mailed-fist treatment of unarmed protestors in other North African states such as Egypt and Yemen and those in the Middle East such as Bahrain, home to the US Navy’s 5th Fleet? Bahrain has already declared martial law, killed scores of demonstrators, and has welcomed 1000 elite Saudi Arabian troops to help quell the unrest.
Why are they tolerating the mercilessly killings of a pro-democracy civilians and monks in a peaceful protests rally against the military regime in Burma in 2009? In the Philippines, the martial law alone caused the lives of about 120,000 to 160,000 lives mostly of the Moro Peoples. The biggest lost due to massacres in the 70s. The big wars continue on the backyards of the Moro Peoples that until now caused unaccounted lives. The 2001 all out war policy of President Joseph Estrada that commemorated its 9th anniversary on March 21 caused the displacement of thousands of innocent civilians and millions worth of properties destroyed and burned yet did somebody ever cried for "international community intervention?
Today there are still a little less than a hundred thousand (accumulated) number of IDPs who are victims of the 2008 Military Surgical Operations who have not yet returned to their places of origin as they have nothing to return. They have suffered much longer than the Libyan people, however the International community particularly the UN is blind, voiceless and deaf.
BCJP also criticizes the Arab League and the Organization of the Islamic Conference for its failure to resolve the Libyan political crisis and violence without calling on foreign intervention. The Arab League and OIC are tooth-less tigers. The political crisis and violence have brought the scourge of violence and Western imperialism to Libya and her people in the guise of saving the Libyans from Colonel Moammar al-Gadhafi could be the long-sought excuse the Western world was waiting for to get into the Libyan oil pie and help themselves.
We call on to all peace loving people, CSOs, peace movements and human rights defenders all over the world to lend their voice to the call for peace in the Middle East. Demand and urge their respective government’s involvement in facilitating peace and cessation of violence between western forces and Middle Eastern governments.
No to US led war of aggression in Libya!
Stop the Operation Odyssey Dawn Now!
Reference;
Bobby Benito
Cell No. 09994972939 or 09057500530
Tel. No. 390 2729
Email; bc.justpeace@gmail.com
The Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP) condemns the US-led war of aggressions against the people of Libya. This wide scope military action to intervene the internal conflict between the government of President Muammar Quaddafi and the opposition was done by virtue of a UN Resolution that resulted in the operation called "Operations Odyssey Dawn".
To bomb Libya, in order to overthrow the Kaddafi government on the pretext of “humanitarian intervention is total hypocrisy and will only worsen the situation. Why are these great western powers exhibiting such concern for the seven million or so Libyans?
Aside from the truth having been exposed especially with regard to the invasion and occupation of Iraq, why these powers were not concerned about the lives lost and the destruction wreaked on Gaza when it was being bombarded by Israel in 2009, or when Palestinian refugees were massacred in Sabra-Shatilla in 1982? Why are they not as quick to condemn and call for international intervention - diplomatic, economic and military – against the continuing mailed-fist treatment of unarmed protestors in other North African states such as Egypt and Yemen and those in the Middle East such as Bahrain, home to the US Navy’s 5th Fleet? Bahrain has already declared martial law, killed scores of demonstrators, and has welcomed 1000 elite Saudi Arabian troops to help quell the unrest.
Why are they tolerating the mercilessly killings of a pro-democracy civilians and monks in a peaceful protests rally against the military regime in Burma in 2009? In the Philippines, the martial law alone caused the lives of about 120,000 to 160,000 lives mostly of the Moro Peoples. The biggest lost due to massacres in the 70s. The big wars continue on the backyards of the Moro Peoples that until now caused unaccounted lives. The 2001 all out war policy of President Joseph Estrada that commemorated its 9th anniversary on March 21 caused the displacement of thousands of innocent civilians and millions worth of properties destroyed and burned yet did somebody ever cried for "international community intervention?
Today there are still a little less than a hundred thousand (accumulated) number of IDPs who are victims of the 2008 Military Surgical Operations who have not yet returned to their places of origin as they have nothing to return. They have suffered much longer than the Libyan people, however the International community particularly the UN is blind, voiceless and deaf.
BCJP also criticizes the Arab League and the Organization of the Islamic Conference for its failure to resolve the Libyan political crisis and violence without calling on foreign intervention. The Arab League and OIC are tooth-less tigers. The political crisis and violence have brought the scourge of violence and Western imperialism to Libya and her people in the guise of saving the Libyans from Colonel Moammar al-Gadhafi could be the long-sought excuse the Western world was waiting for to get into the Libyan oil pie and help themselves.
We call on to all peace loving people, CSOs, peace movements and human rights defenders all over the world to lend their voice to the call for peace in the Middle East. Demand and urge their respective government’s involvement in facilitating peace and cessation of violence between western forces and Middle Eastern governments.
No to US led war of aggression in Libya!
Stop the Operation Odyssey Dawn Now!
Reference;
Bobby Benito
Cell No. 09994972939 or 09057500530
Tel. No. 390 2729
Email; bc.justpeace@gmail.com
Friday, March 18, 2011
Not from ARMM areas, Sec. Robredo says of protesters
By Muhammad Musa
March 13, 2011 - “Ang balita ko ang mga nag-rally ay hindi taga ARMM, ito’y galing sa Sultan Kudarat province. Hindi naman sakop ng ARMM ang Sultan Kudarat…” (I heard that those who gathered for the rally were not residents of ARMM; they come from Sultan Kudarat province. Sultan Kudarat was never been part of ARMM”
This was the statement of Sec. Jesse M. Robredo of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), who told reporters that when consultations on the House Bill 4164 were conducted to the people of Maguindanao province.
The consultation was held at the ARMM Cultural Complex, Cotabato City on Thursday March 10.
Robredo doubted the protesters who have brought people in the street of Gov. Gutierrez Avenue in the City of Cotabato for an anti-rally campaign during the consultations about the HB 4146 filled by Maguindanao 1st District Rep. Bai Sandra Sema to the House of Representative on the 7th of February.
The proposed HB 4146 is an Act resetting the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) elections to synchronize with the 2013 National and Local elections.
The protesters led by a progressive group asked the government to conduct the elections on August 8, 2011, saying this wasalready fixed by Republic Act 9054, in order to give the people of ARMM to choose their leader whom they know and trust to lead the region.
The protesters believed that although the ARMM past administrations have full of controversies over the alleged “culture of goons, guns and corruption” it is the right timing to change the ARMM’s negative image by having the election.
Another group of ‘pro-ARMM election’ emphasized that the right of suffrage is an element of democracy that should not be denied to the people of ARMM, so that can freely choose their leaders.
In a related development, RLA Speaker Hon. DatuRoonie Q. Sinsuat told reporters that the ARMM administration has a concrete stand on the matter being discussed saying RA 9054 that if the President would appoint officials to be placed in ARMM government as officer-in-charge, the incumbent should be considered first.
However, Robredo disclosed during the consultation that only the ARMM officials are enjoying but the condition of the people has never changed.
He said the poverty incidence in the ARMM is so high in the four provinces of ARMM.
Meanwhile, Abdulbasit Benito, the Secretary of the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society-Kutawato Regional Management Committee (CBCS-KRMC) suggested in choosing the OIC of the ARMM, there should a screening committee that will represent the areas of the mainland and the western Mindanao. These representatives will help craft the criteria for choosing the right person to head the region.
He suggested the following criteria: first must be a Bangsamoro—a native inhabitant of ARMM; second it has a background on NGO work; third no record on bad governance; fourth they should have clout to the two Moro fronts the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF); fifth he/she can facilitate the full realization of Bangsamoro’s right-to-self-determination; and sixth God fearing.
Meantime, Rep. Sandra Sema said the deferment of the ARMM election would save government funds and give way to uninterrupted GPH-MILF peace talks.
ARMM Executive Secretary Atty. Naguib B. Sinarimbo said that the consultation was conducted by the House Committee on Electoral Reforms and Suffrage and the Muslim Affairs upon the request of P-Noy Aquino through the suggestion of Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council or LEDAC.
After consulting the residents of Maguindanao and Cotabato City, the next two rounds of consultations will be held in Marawi City in Lanao and Zamboanga City for the western Mindanao constituents.
March 13, 2011 - “Ang balita ko ang mga nag-rally ay hindi taga ARMM, ito’y galing sa Sultan Kudarat province. Hindi naman sakop ng ARMM ang Sultan Kudarat…” (I heard that those who gathered for the rally were not residents of ARMM; they come from Sultan Kudarat province. Sultan Kudarat was never been part of ARMM”
This was the statement of Sec. Jesse M. Robredo of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), who told reporters that when consultations on the House Bill 4164 were conducted to the people of Maguindanao province.
The consultation was held at the ARMM Cultural Complex, Cotabato City on Thursday March 10.
Robredo doubted the protesters who have brought people in the street of Gov. Gutierrez Avenue in the City of Cotabato for an anti-rally campaign during the consultations about the HB 4146 filled by Maguindanao 1st District Rep. Bai Sandra Sema to the House of Representative on the 7th of February.
The proposed HB 4146 is an Act resetting the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) elections to synchronize with the 2013 National and Local elections.
The protesters led by a progressive group asked the government to conduct the elections on August 8, 2011, saying this wasalready fixed by Republic Act 9054, in order to give the people of ARMM to choose their leader whom they know and trust to lead the region.
The protesters believed that although the ARMM past administrations have full of controversies over the alleged “culture of goons, guns and corruption” it is the right timing to change the ARMM’s negative image by having the election.
Another group of ‘pro-ARMM election’ emphasized that the right of suffrage is an element of democracy that should not be denied to the people of ARMM, so that can freely choose their leaders.
In a related development, RLA Speaker Hon. DatuRoonie Q. Sinsuat told reporters that the ARMM administration has a concrete stand on the matter being discussed saying RA 9054 that if the President would appoint officials to be placed in ARMM government as officer-in-charge, the incumbent should be considered first.
However, Robredo disclosed during the consultation that only the ARMM officials are enjoying but the condition of the people has never changed.
He said the poverty incidence in the ARMM is so high in the four provinces of ARMM.
Meanwhile, Abdulbasit Benito, the Secretary of the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society-Kutawato Regional Management Committee (CBCS-KRMC) suggested in choosing the OIC of the ARMM, there should a screening committee that will represent the areas of the mainland and the western Mindanao. These representatives will help craft the criteria for choosing the right person to head the region.
He suggested the following criteria: first must be a Bangsamoro—a native inhabitant of ARMM; second it has a background on NGO work; third no record on bad governance; fourth they should have clout to the two Moro fronts the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF); fifth he/she can facilitate the full realization of Bangsamoro’s right-to-self-determination; and sixth God fearing.
Meantime, Rep. Sandra Sema said the deferment of the ARMM election would save government funds and give way to uninterrupted GPH-MILF peace talks.
ARMM Executive Secretary Atty. Naguib B. Sinarimbo said that the consultation was conducted by the House Committee on Electoral Reforms and Suffrage and the Muslim Affairs upon the request of P-Noy Aquino through the suggestion of Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council or LEDAC.
After consulting the residents of Maguindanao and Cotabato City, the next two rounds of consultations will be held in Marawi City in Lanao and Zamboanga City for the western Mindanao constituents.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Remembering Jabiddah Massacre
March 18, 1968
Today marks the 43rd commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre, wherein between 28 and 64 Moro youths were mercilessly massacred in Corregidor Island allegedly by the government soldiers under the command of then Gen. Fabian Ver during the Marcos dictatorial regime. It was happened when Moro recruits undergoing rigid training for sabotage, jungle warfare, and guerilla tactics in Simunul island of Tawi-Tawi and Corregidor, respectively.
It was widely believed that the purpose of the training was a secret preparation for the Philippine Military operation in Sabah-code named “Operation Merdeka”. This belief was substantiated by the revelation of Jibin Arula (the lone survivor of the carnage) made to report to the whole world the brutal incident because they refused to follow the order and execute the demon plan of then Pres. Marcos.
Afterwards, simultaneous condemnation from various sectors was staged against the government and the reason for the formation of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and later the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The Senate and congressional inquiries into the Jabidah massacre in 1968 yielded inconclusive findings. No one was held accountable for the horrible killings. The officers and enlisted men who were court-martialed were all cleared. Alas, the Jabiddah massacre and other massacres including rampant of human rights violations and other carnage committed against the Bangsamoro have not given justice and it seems continuing up to this time.
The only living witness to the massacre, Jibin Arula has just passed away last month. Until his death he was not able to get justice, along with his comrades.
It is in this pursuit, the Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP), a human rights and peace advocate organization, joins the Bangsamoro Civil Society and other peace organizations for the peaceful initiatives calling for the government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) towards the signing of the negotiated political settlement of the Moro Question on the basis of the Bangsamoro people’s right to self-determination and freedom.
We firmly believe the justice that has been denied to the Bangsamoro will only be resolved through the signing of peace agreement-- for it is the most peaceful solutions and would finally resolve the Bangsamoro problem and conflict in Mindanao.
“Let us resolve the Mindanao conflict, sign and implement peace agreement! Now Na!”
Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP)
Int. 003-c, Don E. Sero Street, Rosary Heights 4 Cotabato City,
Telephone No. +63 64 390-2726
Mobile No. +63999497293
Email Addresses: bc.justpeace@gmail.com,
centerforjustpeace@yahoo.com
Today marks the 43rd commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre, wherein between 28 and 64 Moro youths were mercilessly massacred in Corregidor Island allegedly by the government soldiers under the command of then Gen. Fabian Ver during the Marcos dictatorial regime. It was happened when Moro recruits undergoing rigid training for sabotage, jungle warfare, and guerilla tactics in Simunul island of Tawi-Tawi and Corregidor, respectively.
It was widely believed that the purpose of the training was a secret preparation for the Philippine Military operation in Sabah-code named “Operation Merdeka”. This belief was substantiated by the revelation of Jibin Arula (the lone survivor of the carnage) made to report to the whole world the brutal incident because they refused to follow the order and execute the demon plan of then Pres. Marcos.
Afterwards, simultaneous condemnation from various sectors was staged against the government and the reason for the formation of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and later the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The Senate and congressional inquiries into the Jabidah massacre in 1968 yielded inconclusive findings. No one was held accountable for the horrible killings. The officers and enlisted men who were court-martialed were all cleared. Alas, the Jabiddah massacre and other massacres including rampant of human rights violations and other carnage committed against the Bangsamoro have not given justice and it seems continuing up to this time.
The only living witness to the massacre, Jibin Arula has just passed away last month. Until his death he was not able to get justice, along with his comrades.
It is in this pursuit, the Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP), a human rights and peace advocate organization, joins the Bangsamoro Civil Society and other peace organizations for the peaceful initiatives calling for the government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) towards the signing of the negotiated political settlement of the Moro Question on the basis of the Bangsamoro people’s right to self-determination and freedom.
We firmly believe the justice that has been denied to the Bangsamoro will only be resolved through the signing of peace agreement-- for it is the most peaceful solutions and would finally resolve the Bangsamoro problem and conflict in Mindanao.
“Let us resolve the Mindanao conflict, sign and implement peace agreement! Now Na!”
Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP)
Int. 003-c, Don E. Sero Street, Rosary Heights 4 Cotabato City,
Telephone No. +63 64 390-2726
Mobile No. +63999497293
Email Addresses: bc.justpeace@gmail.com,
centerforjustpeace@yahoo.com
CBCS and HB no. 4146: Answering questions by questions by GMA
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JABIDAH MASSACRE: A Call to justice as a closure
A Call to justice as a closure to the Jabidah Massacre
March 18, 2011
Bobby Benito
Executive Director
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP)
43 year ago on March 18, 1968, a group of Moro men were recruited and trained by Government soldiers in Corregidor, Bataan. But when they found out that they will be sent to invade Sabah they refused and were subsequently killed. Fortunately, one survives, Jibin Arula who jumped into the water and swam for days before being found by fishermen near Leyte.
A few days ago Jibin Arula passed away, the only living witness to the massacre. Until his death he was not able to get justice.
Jabidah massacre as the incident came to be known was the turning point for many Moro to be awakened and become aware of their oppression and marginalization during the Marcos regime. The massacre served as the motivating factor for the Moro to arm themselves and fight the Marcos government.
The added tragedy to the massacre was that up to this day it did not get the justice it deserved and thus there is no closure to the incident nor to the memory of those who died.
The justice that has been denied can only be achieved if the problem in Mindanao will be resolved through the peace talk. So, the Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP) is calling for justice through the continuation of the peace talks between the government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and immediate signing of the peace agreement.
Justice for the massacre victims!
Justice for all victims of violence and aggressions!
Sign the comprehensive compact agreement between the Government of the Philippines and the MILF! Now Na!
March 18, 2011
Bobby Benito
Executive Director
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP)
43 year ago on March 18, 1968, a group of Moro men were recruited and trained by Government soldiers in Corregidor, Bataan. But when they found out that they will be sent to invade Sabah they refused and were subsequently killed. Fortunately, one survives, Jibin Arula who jumped into the water and swam for days before being found by fishermen near Leyte.
A few days ago Jibin Arula passed away, the only living witness to the massacre. Until his death he was not able to get justice.
Jabidah massacre as the incident came to be known was the turning point for many Moro to be awakened and become aware of their oppression and marginalization during the Marcos regime. The massacre served as the motivating factor for the Moro to arm themselves and fight the Marcos government.
The added tragedy to the massacre was that up to this day it did not get the justice it deserved and thus there is no closure to the incident nor to the memory of those who died.
The justice that has been denied can only be achieved if the problem in Mindanao will be resolved through the peace talk. So, the Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP) is calling for justice through the continuation of the peace talks between the government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and immediate signing of the peace agreement.
Justice for the massacre victims!
Justice for all victims of violence and aggressions!
Sign the comprehensive compact agreement between the Government of the Philippines and the MILF! Now Na!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Laying the Foundation for a reform ARMM
The majority of the grassroots leaders we talked are for the postponement of ARMM Elections for valid reasons: peace and order condition, ensure that the peace process (incorporate GPH – MNLF and possible agreement between GPH and MILF) does not get derailed by partisan politics, synchronize elections will reduce expense loss of lives and properties, most of the ongoing rido in Maguindanao are post election related violence. Postponement of the ARMM elections gives PNOY enough space to solve the region’s problems. Among the systems that needed to be fixed are auditing, budgeting, and human resource concerns, among many. It will also give ample time to consensus building for agenda (reform agenda) such as peace and security, governance, delivery of basic services, environment etc. Laying the Foundation for a reform ARMM
Sunday, February 27, 2011
The NATO Plan is to Occupy Libya
By Fidel Castro
February 23, 2011 "Escambray" -- -Oil has become the principal wealth in the hands of the great Yankee transnationals; through this energy source they had an instrument that considerably expanded their political power in the world. It was their main weapon when they decided to easily liquidate the Cuban Revolution as soon as the first just and sovereign laws were passed in our Homeland: depriving it of oil.
Upon this energy source today’s civilization was developed. Venezuela was the nation in this hemisphere that paid the highest price. The United States became the lord and master of the huge oil fields that Mother Nature had bestowed upon that sister country.
At the end of the last World War, it started to extract greater amounts of oil from the oil fields of Iran, as well as those in Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the Arab countries located around them. These became the main suppliers. World consumption progressively increased to the fabulous figure of approximately 80 million barrels a day, including those being extracted on United States territory, to which later gas, hydro and nuclear energies were added. Until the beginning of the twentieth century, coal had been the basic source of energy that made industrial development possible, before billions of automobiles and engines consuming the liquid fuel were produced.
The squandering of oil and gas is associated with one of the greatest tragedies, not in the least resolved, which is suffered by humankind: climate change.
When our Revolution arose, Algeria, Libya and Egypt were not yet oil producers and a great part of the abundant reserves of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran and the United Arab Emirates were still to be discovered.
In December of 1951, Libya becomes the first African country to attain its independence after WW II, during which its territory was the stage for important battles between the troops of Germany and the United Kingdom, conferring fame and glory on Generals Erwin Rommel and Bernard L. Montgomery.
Ninety-five percent of its territory is completely made up of desert. Technology permitted the discovery of vital oilfields of excellent quality light oil that today reach one million 800 thousand barrels a day along with abundant deposits of natural gas. Such riches allowed it to reach life expectancy that is almost at 75 years of age and the highest per capita income in Africa. Its harsh desert is located over an enormous lake of fossil waters, equivalent to more than three times the land area of Cuba; this has made it possible to construct a broad network of pipelines of fresh water that stretch from one end of the country to the other.
Libya, which had a million inhabitants when it attained independence, today has somewhat more than 6 million.
The Libyan Revolution took place in the month of September of the year 1969. Its main leader was Muammar al-Gaddafi, a soldier of Bedouin origin who, in his early years, was inspired by the ideas of the Egyptian leader Gamal Abdel Nasser. Without any doubt, many of his decisions are associated with the changes that were produced when, as in Egypt, a weak and corrupt monarchy was overthrown in Libya.
The inhabitants of that country have age-old warrior traditions. It is said that ancient Libyans were a part of Hannibal’s army when he was at the point of destroying Ancient Rome with the troops that crossed the Alps.
One can agree with Gaddafi or not. The world has been invaded with all kinds of news, especially using the mass media. One has to wait the necessary length of time in order to learn precisely what is the truth and what are lies, or a mixture of events of every kind that, in the midst of chaos, were produced in Libya. For me, what is absolutely clear is that the government of the United States is not in the least worried about peace in Libya and it will not hesitate in giving NATO the order to invade that rich country, perhaps in a matter of hours or a few short days.
Those who with perfidious intentions invented the lie that Gaddafi was headed for Venezuela, just as they did yesterday afternoon on Sunday the 20th of February, today received an fitting response from Foreign Affairs Minister Nicolás Maduro when he literally stated that he was “wishing that the Libyan people would find, in the exercise of their sovereignty, a peaceful solution to their difficulties, that would preserve the integrity of the Libyan people and nation, without the interference of imperialism...”
As for me, I cannot imagine that the Libyan leader would abandon his country; escaping the responsibilities he is charged with, whether or not they are partially or totally false.
An honest person shall always be against any injustice being committed against any people in the world, and the worst of all, at this moment, would be to remain silent in the face of the crime that NATO is getting ready to commit against the Libyan people.
The leadership of that war-mongering organization has to do it. We must condemn it!
Fidel Castro Ruz - February 21, 2011
February 23, 2011 "Escambray" -- -Oil has become the principal wealth in the hands of the great Yankee transnationals; through this energy source they had an instrument that considerably expanded their political power in the world. It was their main weapon when they decided to easily liquidate the Cuban Revolution as soon as the first just and sovereign laws were passed in our Homeland: depriving it of oil.
Upon this energy source today’s civilization was developed. Venezuela was the nation in this hemisphere that paid the highest price. The United States became the lord and master of the huge oil fields that Mother Nature had bestowed upon that sister country.
At the end of the last World War, it started to extract greater amounts of oil from the oil fields of Iran, as well as those in Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the Arab countries located around them. These became the main suppliers. World consumption progressively increased to the fabulous figure of approximately 80 million barrels a day, including those being extracted on United States territory, to which later gas, hydro and nuclear energies were added. Until the beginning of the twentieth century, coal had been the basic source of energy that made industrial development possible, before billions of automobiles and engines consuming the liquid fuel were produced.
The squandering of oil and gas is associated with one of the greatest tragedies, not in the least resolved, which is suffered by humankind: climate change.
When our Revolution arose, Algeria, Libya and Egypt were not yet oil producers and a great part of the abundant reserves of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran and the United Arab Emirates were still to be discovered.
In December of 1951, Libya becomes the first African country to attain its independence after WW II, during which its territory was the stage for important battles between the troops of Germany and the United Kingdom, conferring fame and glory on Generals Erwin Rommel and Bernard L. Montgomery.
Ninety-five percent of its territory is completely made up of desert. Technology permitted the discovery of vital oilfields of excellent quality light oil that today reach one million 800 thousand barrels a day along with abundant deposits of natural gas. Such riches allowed it to reach life expectancy that is almost at 75 years of age and the highest per capita income in Africa. Its harsh desert is located over an enormous lake of fossil waters, equivalent to more than three times the land area of Cuba; this has made it possible to construct a broad network of pipelines of fresh water that stretch from one end of the country to the other.
Libya, which had a million inhabitants when it attained independence, today has somewhat more than 6 million.
The Libyan Revolution took place in the month of September of the year 1969. Its main leader was Muammar al-Gaddafi, a soldier of Bedouin origin who, in his early years, was inspired by the ideas of the Egyptian leader Gamal Abdel Nasser. Without any doubt, many of his decisions are associated with the changes that were produced when, as in Egypt, a weak and corrupt monarchy was overthrown in Libya.
The inhabitants of that country have age-old warrior traditions. It is said that ancient Libyans were a part of Hannibal’s army when he was at the point of destroying Ancient Rome with the troops that crossed the Alps.
One can agree with Gaddafi or not. The world has been invaded with all kinds of news, especially using the mass media. One has to wait the necessary length of time in order to learn precisely what is the truth and what are lies, or a mixture of events of every kind that, in the midst of chaos, were produced in Libya. For me, what is absolutely clear is that the government of the United States is not in the least worried about peace in Libya and it will not hesitate in giving NATO the order to invade that rich country, perhaps in a matter of hours or a few short days.
Those who with perfidious intentions invented the lie that Gaddafi was headed for Venezuela, just as they did yesterday afternoon on Sunday the 20th of February, today received an fitting response from Foreign Affairs Minister Nicolás Maduro when he literally stated that he was “wishing that the Libyan people would find, in the exercise of their sovereignty, a peaceful solution to their difficulties, that would preserve the integrity of the Libyan people and nation, without the interference of imperialism...”
As for me, I cannot imagine that the Libyan leader would abandon his country; escaping the responsibilities he is charged with, whether or not they are partially or totally false.
An honest person shall always be against any injustice being committed against any people in the world, and the worst of all, at this moment, would be to remain silent in the face of the crime that NATO is getting ready to commit against the Libyan people.
The leadership of that war-mongering organization has to do it. We must condemn it!
Fidel Castro Ruz - February 21, 2011
Saturday, February 12, 2011
CBCS Statement of Support for the GPH-MILF Peace Talks
The two-day meeting between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia on February 9 to 10, 2011 marks their 20th exploratory peace talks since they started their peace negotiation ended with high notes reflective of the genuine desire of both panels to strive and work hard to bring back peace in Mindanao.
Among the major issues stipulated in joint statement the two (2) panels issued is the review and amended of the terms of reference of International Monitoring Team (IMT), the implementing guidelines for the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) and the 25 Moro political detainees. From here, we can see how the unity of thoughts of the two (2) panels is blending in looking at the issues or problems they are addressing at the negotiating table as we viewed as a healthy sign in start of the formal peace.
The Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS) had been sharing its part in support for the GRP-MILF Peace Talks as we are hereby reaffirming our commitment to support the GPH-MILF Peace Talks.
Toward this end, the CBCS is calling on the Bangsamoro and our leaders to support the GRP-MILF Peace Panels in preserving and sustaining the peace negotiation so that they can ink peace agreement the soonest possible time. Likewise, the CBCS is also calling on other Moro civil society organizations and non Moro civil society organizations and other peoples in Mindanao to join us in working and ensuring the success of the peace talks so that a just and lasting peace will restored in our homeland we peoples in Mindanao will peacefully co-exist and harmoniously living based on trust and respect.
Issued in Cotabato City this 10th day of February 2011
Among the major issues stipulated in joint statement the two (2) panels issued is the review and amended of the terms of reference of International Monitoring Team (IMT), the implementing guidelines for the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) and the 25 Moro political detainees. From here, we can see how the unity of thoughts of the two (2) panels is blending in looking at the issues or problems they are addressing at the negotiating table as we viewed as a healthy sign in start of the formal peace.
The Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS) had been sharing its part in support for the GRP-MILF Peace Talks as we are hereby reaffirming our commitment to support the GPH-MILF Peace Talks.
Toward this end, the CBCS is calling on the Bangsamoro and our leaders to support the GRP-MILF Peace Panels in preserving and sustaining the peace negotiation so that they can ink peace agreement the soonest possible time. Likewise, the CBCS is also calling on other Moro civil society organizations and non Moro civil society organizations and other peoples in Mindanao to join us in working and ensuring the success of the peace talks so that a just and lasting peace will restored in our homeland we peoples in Mindanao will peacefully co-exist and harmoniously living based on trust and respect.
Issued in Cotabato City this 10th day of February 2011
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