KIKO PANGILINAN URGES PARTIES TO RESUME GRP-NDF PEACE TALKS

Independent Senator Francis 'Kiko' Pangilinan appeals to the National Democratic Front of the Philippines and Government of the Republic of the Philippines to "set aside accusations and find a common framework to start taking peace again.".

"For this nation to be given a chance to rise up, peace must be given a chance. The agenda of achieving lasting peace is the ultimate goal here. This war has raged on for far too long, and we must put an end to this vicious cycle of hostility."

The NDF's chief political consultant Prof. Jose Maria Sison earlier made a statement doubting resumption of talks with GRP during the remaining months of the Arroyo administration.

"We were witnesses in the past of the positive outcomes of peace negotiations during the Ramos administration," says Pangilinan. "The progress and development of Davao, General Santos and Cagayan de Oro cities in the mid-90's were ushered in by resolute peace negotiations and an extended ceasefire agreement. Zamboanga, Marawi, Iligan, Digos, Marbel, as well as the Bicol, Quezon, and Samar regions could all be next. But there can never be economic progress without peace and stability."

"It is imperative that we resume talks as soon as possible so as to bestow upon GMA's successor a smooth transition and ready framework of the peace process, rather than starting again from scratch after 2010. Huwag natin hayaang mag-ipon ng galit at di pagkaka-unawaan. Kailangan natin manaig ang kapayapaan sa lalong madaling panahon."