Deles: Time for peace is now

MANILA, Philippines - The time for peace is now.

Thus said Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles during her speech at the Moro Leaders’ Congress at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao Saturday.

“I have dared to return to government and I face you again today with new hope and commitment because under our current President, under P-Noy – sa daang matuwid – al sirat al mustaquim – we can dare to hope again. With you we say – the time for peace is now, “Deles said.

“Our presence here signifies the national government’s recognition of your sincere efforts to gather support from and ensure the participation of the Bangsamoro for the ongoing peace talks,” she said.

“We salute your show of unarmed force in support of the peace process,” she said.

Deles said President Aquino has directed all government agencies to help the government speed up its peace and development program in Mindanao.

She also relayed the national government’s recognition and appreciation to the MILF leadership for holding the public assembly.

She expressed optimism that through new hope and commitment from the government, peace will come to Mindanao.

Deles also cited the efforts of the police and military in support of the peace process.

“The government peace panel does not bring empty or false promises to Kuala Lumpur. Following the President’s instructions, the panel ensures that appropriate departments and agencies have been properly consulted and have come on board. The panel goes to KL for every meeting with a fresh mandate from the President,” Deles added.

She said the peace panel is also consulting with senators and congressmen.

Deles said dialogues would also be held with retired Supreme Court justices and members of the 1986 Constitutional Commission. Consultations with local government units, civil society organizations, business sector and academe are ongoing, she added.