Peace Advocates Call for Immediate Restart of GRP-NDF Talks
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—Ahead of President Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona), peace advocates are urging the immediate restart of political negotiations between the government and the communist rebels represented by the National Democratic Front (NDF). They believe resuming talks is crucial to ending decades of conflict rooted in social and economic inequality.
Bishop Felixberto Calang of Iglesia Filipina Independiente, convenor of Sowing Seeds of Peace in Mindanao, emphasized that it is time to close the chapter on over fifty years of rebellion. “I hope to hear a definitive statement from the president on that matter,” Calang said about the upcoming Sona, which many see as a potential turning point.
Addressing Root Causes to Sustain Peace
Calang also highlighted the importance of tackling socioeconomic issues that fuel the insurgency. Among these, the equitable distribution of land to landless farmers remains a pressing concern. Without resolving such fundamental problems, peace talks may fail to achieve lasting results.
In addition to peace negotiations, Calang called for a comprehensive reform of the political system. He pointed out that the dominance of political dynasties has made government less responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens. “This can start with reforming the partylist system to ensure that legitimate marginalized sectors are well represented,” he added.
Political Reform as a Path to Inclusivity
Reflecting on recent elections, Calang observed, “The recent midterm elections marginalized pro-people politics. Politics is only for the moneyed.” This statement underscores the widespread frustration with a political landscape that often excludes the voices of the poor and marginalized.
Local leaders and peace advocates alike believe that a renewed commitment to dialogue and political reform could pave the way for a more just and peaceful society. As the nation watches the president’s Sona, many hope it will set a clear direction toward these goals.
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