The House of Representatives deserves commendation for taking a strong stand behind the Marcos administration’s bold move to forge national unity through peace talks with the National Democratic Front and an offer of amnesty to various rebel groups.
Party leaders from among the more than 300 members of the House formed a united front in support of President Marcos Jr.’s two-pronged peace initiative.
In a joint statement, the House party leaders described the Chief Executive’s pursuit of peace as a “historic move” that marks a “pivotal moment” in the nation’s quest for lasting peace and sustainable development.
“President Marcos’s call for peace transcends political boundaries and speaks to the core of our shared values as Filipinos. It is a call for understanding, cooperation, and collective action towards a future where every citizen can live in harmony and prosperity,” the House leaders said.
Among those who signed the joint statement were stalwarts of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats; Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC); Nacionalista Party (NP); National Unity Party (NUP); Ako Bikol Partylist; Bicol Saro Partylist; Barangay Health and Wellness Partylist; and Partido Navoteño.
Speaker Martin Romualdez had earlier facilitated the filing of four House Concurrent Resolutions that concurred with the amnesty proclamations of the President Marcos covering various rebel groups.
The chamber is expected to adopt all four concurrent resolutions before the Christmas break.
“Recognizing the complexities and challenges of this peace process, we pledge our support and commitment to contribute constructively to these negotiations. We are united in the belief that through dialogue, empathy, and mutual respect, we can overcome historical divides and build a more inclusive and peaceful nation,” the political parties said in the joint statement.
Further on, the statement said: “We urge all Filipinos from every corner of our archipelago to join us in this noble pursuit. It is only through our joint efforts that we can turn the aspirations of peace, unity, and progress into reality.”
It’s a call for unity that our people should fully support.
In conclusion, the lawmakers stated: “In solidarity, we commend President Marcos for his visionary leadership. Together, as a united House of Representatives and as one nation, we look forward to a future marked by peace, unity, and prosperity for all Filipinos.”
The united stand of the House of Representatives on the peace talks and amnesty offer to rebel groups is a step in the right direction amid discordant voices casting doubt on the sincerity of the government in pursuing the peace process to a successful conclusion.