(POLITIKO) Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada on Thursday welcomed the decision of government and communist rebels to resume peace talks, saying it opens avenues for understanding, compromise, and resolving long-standing issues.
“The agreement to resume the suspended peace talks between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) is a major stride towards progress,” the senator stated.
Malacañang revealed that representatives of the government and NDFP have agreed to resume peace talks during talks held in the Netherlands and Norway.
“The signing of a joint communique demonstrates the readiness of both parties to exchange ideas and reach a consensus, disregarding their disparities for the betterment of our country,” said Estrada.
“This is a positive development in finding a peaceful resolution to the decades-long armed conflict, especially with President Marcos Jr.’s move to grant amnesty to rebels,” he added.
Meanwhile, the senator said his office will “closely monitor the peace negotiations to ensure that any agreement reached reflects the principles of justice, inclusivity, and reconciliation, and upholds the interests of the Filipino people.”
Although the road to lasting peace may be challenging, Estrada pointed out “the resumption of talks opens avenues for mutual understanding, compromise, and, ultimately, resolving long-standing issues.”