Statement of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile
on the latest spate of bombings in Mindanao

As Senate President and as an ordinary Filipino, I am appalled by the latest spate of bombings in Mindanao, particularly in the cities of Cotabato, Iligan and Jolo.

I condemn in the strongest possible terms these cowardly and terroristic acts that must not go unpunished. As a former defense minister, I expect the police and military to leave no stone unturned in investigating these incidents and bring the perpetuators to justice.

The challenge to get to the bottom of these incidents is even greater today given the current political situation. Already, there are speculations that these bombings are state-sponsored to pave the way for a "No-Elections" scenario. The police should crack these cases open to dispel these dangerous speculations as soon as possible.

Now is perhaps the time to reactivate the stalled peace process. I call for the resumption of the Mindanao peace talks in a manner that is transparent and in consultation with all the stakeholders in that part of the country. We will not achieve economic prosperity unless we find peace in Mindanao.