KIDAPAWAN CITY, March 1, 2009—The governor of the province of North Cotabato expressed optimism that the centuries old conflict in Mindanao will still have an end even saying that “it is only through dialogue that we can talk of our differences harmoniously.”
Governor Jesus N. Sacdalan said that if the people will refuse to dialogue then the problems will not be resolved.
“We are supporting moves that aim to build peace especially through consultations. We are pro-peace and pro-dialogue,” said Sacdalan.
He added that in the past the absence of dialogue and community consultation resulted to confusion and division and “making the problem more problematic.”
“We have proven that a firm and united stand against any form of policy imposition without proper and clear consultation –dialogue with the people, will not bear fruit but instead bring more trouble,” said Sacdalan, adding:
“Absence of dialogue will also breed misunderstanding and suffering to our people. We cannot afford to let our people suffer from violence for they have suffered enough.”
That is why, he said, “let us continue talking peace and bring development and education to our poor communities.”
Sacdalan is also supporting the initiatives of the Bishops –Ulama Conference (BUC) in promoting peaceful dialogues and community consultations in Mindanao.
ON SECURITY
While there is a seemingly peaceful atmosphere in the province but it cannot be denied that this had been a war zone in the past.
For now, he said, the province is building a stronger partnership and collaboration with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to ensure the peace and order situation in the province.
“My congratulations to the men in uniform for a job well done, for your sacrifices to stop criminality, terrorism and other forms of violence that destroy our province and our gains in development,” Sacdalan added.
The province has also intensified their campaign against loose firearms and explosives; illegal drugs and addressed the issues and problems on jail congestion. (Mark S. Ventura)
