Estrada supports dev't plan for MILF areas, says Aventajado

President Estrada fully endorses and supports the plan of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to prepare a comprehensive action plan for the development of Muslim Mindanao, particularly the areas within MILF camps, Secretary Roberto Aventajado said.

Aventajado bared this in a joint press conference at Malacañang with Saeed Ali Daof, emissary extraordinary and plenipotentiary of MILF chief Hashim Salamat.

He said the President designated him as his personal representative to discuss with Daof the economic development plan for the MILF areas.

According to Aventajado, who chairs the Presidential Committee on Flagship Programs and Projects, he and his staff would assist and work with the MILF's Economic Development Committee in the development and implementation of the rebel group's plans and programs, which include:

* Preparation of the action plan and feasibility studies;

* Implementation of the projects identified and described in the action plan; and

* Conversion of the MILF camps into MILF special economic zones.

Aventajado said the conversion of MILF camps into special economic zones would be subject to pertinent laws and dependent on their economic viability.

"President Estrada believes that these plans and programs to develop the MILF-controlled areas will not only enhance the confidence-building measures but will also provide necessary activities in these areas that will improve the lives and well-being of our Muslim brothers and sisters," he said.

For this part, Daof reiterated Salamat's endorsement of and support for the Estrada administration's flagship projects in Muslim Mindanao, particularly in areas covered by MILF camps, "in the interest of peace and development of Mindanao for the benefit of all the people in the area."

He said the MILF action plan covers specific development and livelihood projects that are separate and distinct from existing development programs and projects of the government.

But the MILF projects are supportive and complement flagship and other projects of the Estrada administration, he added.

Daof echoed Aventajado's pronouncement that the MILF projects would serve as "realistic and practical building mechanisms for the people of Mindanao, the Estrada administration and the MILF leadership."

Aventajado said he had briefed the President about the development projects of the MILF.