Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Presidential peace adviser Jess Dureza is back from a two-day talk with representatives of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
In a press conference Tuesday, Dureza said the government (GPH) and the MILF are on the same track when it comes to actively pursuing peace in Mindanao — despite the failed enactment of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in the previous administration.
“MILF is upbeat on achieving peace in Mindanao,” Dureza told the media.
Dureza said the Philippine government is studying which provisions in the BBL are workable, and could be included in the new peace agreement with the MILF.
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“We are now working on a new enabling law but much of that will come from the failed BBL,” said Dureza.
Dureza added, the GPH-MILF panels also discussed the threat of terrorism — including the possible penetration of international terrorist group ISIS. The Philippines-based extremist group Abu Sayyaf already pledged allegiance to ISIS early this year.
Malaysia’s role in peace talks
The Philippine government, according to Dureza, is again getting the help of its neighbor, Malaysia, to be the mediator in achieving peace in Mindanao.
Dureza also said the Philippine and Malaysian governments also agreed to a “revitalize growth area,” as neighbors in the South East Asian region.
The Philippines, Dureza said, wants to build a stronger relationship with Malaysia.
President Rodrigo Duterte is set to visit Malaysia anytime between August 22 to 30.
CNN Philippines’ Ivy Saunar contributed to this report.
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