POLPhil wants broad population involved in peace talks with NDFP

MANILA, Philippines — The Political Officers League of the Philippines (POLPhil) said on Sunday that it wants the “broad population” to be involved in the peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

According to Noel Medina, vice president of POLPhil for National Capital Region, the group does not criticize government officials and NDFP representatives’ efforts toward peace talks.

“[T]he peace process needs to bring together the greatest number of political forces, advocates, and organizations in a broad-based unity,” POLPhil said in a statement.

“In numerous conflict situations, the conditions of deprivation of liberty remain precarious, if not disastrous. The civilian populace are the main ones who are affected, putting their lives in danger and their livelihoods are also disrupted,” it added.

The group also urged progressive mass organizations to become united and to create a “people’s agenda” that will bring peace and benefit the public as well as future generations.

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“These stakeholders have to contribute to the realization of peace in order for the Philippines to leapfrog into a new future and a new narrative of inclusive national progress and peace,” POLPhil said.

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Moreover, the group also mentioned that Muslims and locals of the South helped the group “bring about peace in Mindanao.”

This effort could also be executed at the national level with the cooperation of as many groups as possible, it said.

“The chance to advance national peace now presents itself once more,” it said.