MNLF welcomes amnesty

MANILA, Philippines — The Moro National Liberation Front has lauded President Marcos’ decision to grant amnesty to MNLF members who seek to return to the fold of the law.

The MNLF said the amnesty would “heal the wounds of the past” and result in lasting peace.

Bangsamoro Parliament deputy speaker Ustadz Abdulkarim Tan Misuari said the amnesty supports the reintegration of the MNLF members into society and allows them to contribute to nation-building.

“By choosing amnesty, the President showed sincerity and foresight, recognizing that dialogue and negotiation are keys to resolving conflicts with those who once stood against the government,” Misuari said in a statement released by the Presidential Communications Office yesterday.

Marcos recently signed Proclamation Nos. 406 and 405, granting amnesty to members of the MNLF and the secessionist Moro Islamic Liberation Front, respectively.

Gerry Salapuddin, administrator of the Southern Philippines Development Authority, said the proclamation augurs well for the attainment of lasting peace in Mindanao.

Salapuddin was chairman of the MNLF’s revolutionary committee in 1970s.

Misuari said the proclamation would promote a peaceful and more inclusive nation as well as serve as a vehicle for lasting unity, peace and reconciliation.

He said the amnesty is a significant step toward national unity.