Malacanang on Tuesday dismissed fears expressed by National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) consultant Luis Jalandoni that he might be arrested when he comes home to meet with President Rodrigo Duterte to try to get peace talks back on track.
Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Jalandoni’s apprehension that he might be arrested was “misplaced.”
“The apprehension of Jalandoni that he would be arrested once he sets foot on Philippine soil is misplaced,” Panelo said in a statement.
He added: “Mr. Jalandoni’s intention in returning to the country is to promote the peace talks between their movement and the Philippine government.”
Duterte instruction
“He is assured, therefore, that no arrest will be effected upon his person,” Panelo added.
Panelo made the remarks amid reports that Jalandoni had decided against returning to the country this month because of the possibility of his arrest.
Earlier, the President said Jalandoni and Fidel Agcaoili, another NDFP consultant, had sought a meeting with him on the possible revival of the peace talks.
The President said he would first consult his security officials on the matter, later directing Panelo and presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza to meet with the two NDFP consultants in Manila.