Pres. Duterte Sets One-Day Exclusive Meeting With ASG Surrenderers

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte invited Abu Sayyaf surrenderers here today to a whole day meeting to discuss next steps particularly on how to improve their lives through government intervention, and efforts to finally have peace in Sulu and in the southern part of Mindanao.

“I will invite you to a meeting, maybe in Malacanang,” President Duterte said, speaking to 76 Abu Sayyaf surrenderers and about 900 sectoral representatives including barangay captains, local officials and other stakeholders.

The President nevertheless condemned the beheadings and inhumane atrocities committed by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).“I am not angry with the Abu Sayyaf, I understand where you are coming from, but you have to stop it.” the President said.

President Duterte believes that the ASG have been victims of poverty, poor education and lack of opportunities. “Napabayaan sila,” he said. (They have been left behind.)

“If there is a way for me to help you, please tell me. Come to me and I will listen, but you also have to listen to me,” the President said.

The President said the Abu Sayyaf surrenderers are welcome in Malacanang, and that he is expecting to talk with them for one whole day to discuss the best courses of action to improve their lives. He mentioned that Nur Misuari of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and Al Haj Murad Ebrahim of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will also be invited to this meeting to share their ideas on the best path to peace, and also to consult them on their insights regarding the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and Federalism.

“Wala akong ibang hangarin kundi bigyan ng kapayapaan ang Moro sa Mindanao. I am pleading for peace,” he said.

Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan II thanked the President for this particular visit.

“Pag lahat ng gustong makita kayo pupunta dito ngayon, hinding hindi po talaga magkasya,” Governor Tan said. (If all those who wanted to see you came today, there surely would not be enough space.)

Some 652 loose firearms were presented today to President Duterte during the activity. These firearms were turned over by local officials and residents of the province.

According to Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, this number is ‘just the beginning.’

“Surrendering your weapon is not easy to do. But nevertheless they did it because they believe in our President and his efforts for peace,” General Sobejana said. (ALT/DIS/PIA9-Zamboanga City)