The House political party leaders on Tuesday, Dec. 5, collectively expressed their "unwavering support" for President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.'s peace and national unity initiatives.
"As the united voice of the House of Representatives, representing all political parties, we collectively express our unwavering support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s initiative for peace and national unity. This historic move marks a pivotal moment for our nation's journey toward lasting peace and sustainable development," House Secretary General Reginald Velasco said in a joint statement.
Basahin> joint statement ng mg political party sa Kamara na sumusuporta sa desisyon ni PBBM na isulong ang peacetalks sa mga rebeldeng grupo @dzrhnews pic.twitter.com/184qarsMAe
— milky rigonan 💋 (@milkyrigonan) December 5, 2023
According to Velasco, Marcos' call for peace negotiation with rebel groups and insurgent groups "transcends political boundaries and speaks to the core of our values as Filipinos."
"Recognizing the complexities and challenges of this peace process, we pledge our support and commitment to contribute constructively to these negotiations," he said.
The House Secretary General added that they are "united in the belief that" historical divide could be overcome and an inclusive and peaceful nation could be built "through dialogue, empathy, and mutual respect."
Velasco then called on Filipinos to join them in the noble pursuit.
"It is only through our joint efforts that we can turn the aspirations of peace, unity, and progress into reality," he said.
The House political leaders issued the statement after Vice President Sara Duterte appealed to the President to reconsider the recently issued four proclamations granting to former and present members of rebel and insurgent groups.
According to Duterte, granting amnesty to groups like the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, and National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDF) was not the way toward peace.
The Vice President then criticized the "Oslo Communique" pact signed by the national government and the NDF last week, calling this "an agreement with the devil."
The Oslo Communique reportedly acknowledges "a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict."
