In an interview with radio dzRH, Escudero branded as “amateurs’ and “bookish” government peace negotiators Marvic Leonen and presidential adviser Ging Deles in dealing with the MILF rebels.
He said he is not satisfied with Leonen and Deles’ handling of the current situation, especially when they described the killing of 19 soldiers in Al-Barka, Basilan as an “isolated case.”
Asked if President Aquino’s call for all-out justice last Monday was an indication of the suspension of the peace agreement, Escudero said it is up to MILF top officials to access the President’s action since it entails the use of force against the perpetrators of the ambush against military men last week.
“I think all-out justice are just words. The President is trying not the use the (phrase) all-out war because it will definitely cause some furor among different sectors. But what does all-out justice really mean?” Escudero asked.
He said he thinks the MILF leadership had violated the thrust of the peace talks and that the rebel group is not sincere in its dealing with the government.
“For once, let us let the MILF complain if they want to complain. It should not be that our own negotiators who are complaining to the MILF. I lament that in the past few days, the government negotiators were the ones defending the MILF as if they are very afraid that the peace talks will be stopped,” Escudero said.
He said he doesn’t want an all-out war because it will tarnish the image of the country and the President was correct in his decision to avoid bloodshed.
Continue Reading at The Philippine Star
