Secret deal with MILF could aggravate Mindanao problem, Lacson warns
27 March 2001

Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino senatorial candidate Panfilo "Ping" Lacson today cautioned the government against entering into any deal with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that would only allow the secessionist rebels to rebuild and re-arm their forces.

Lacson's warning came in the wake of reports that government has already forged a secret agreement with the MILF in Kuala Lumpur Saturday. Included in the agreement, according to reports, is the return of various MILF camps, including the vast Camp Abubakar, which were retaken by government forces after a series of bloody military offensive.

The former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief explained that while he is all for the resumption of the peace process between the government and the MILF, it should be done without any pre-condition that could only aggravate the Mindanao problem.

By allowing the MILF to strengthen its military capability to challenge the government, Lacson said the peace initiative will only project an "illusory peace and Pyrrhic victory" for the government.

Lacson also urged Malacaņang to make total disarmament of MILF forces one of government's demands in its peace negotiations, saying there can be no real peace in Mindanao when forces other than the military are allowed to carry weapons of war.

"Total disarmament and keeping Camp Abubakar in government hands will ensure true peace in southern Philippines. Anything less would only be an illusory peace and pyrrhic victory similar to what was achieved during the Ramos administration when the rebels grew in strength because of too much government forbearance to the fortification of MILF strongholds," Lacson said.

"Pogi points for propaganda purposes will not ensure peace. Only strong political will and decisive action will bring lasting peace in the South," added Lacson who was warmly received by thousands of Mindanaoans during the LDP-Puwersa ng Masa sortie in Kidapawan City.

Lacson said the Mindanao conflict has always been due to poverty and peace can be ultimately achieved in this war-torn region if only the government can assure equitable allocation of resources for the full development of Mindanao.

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