Support for common good only path to peace in Mindanao
by Santosh Digal
Lilian, a teacher originally from Mindanao converted to Islam, told AsiaNews about her experience and condemns the violence committed by Islamic separatist groups. Only a dialogue devoid of ulterior motives between the military and the MILF and the economic development of the whole population can lead to the conclusion of the conflict.
Manila (AsiaNews) - "The use of civilians as human shields, the brutal killings and abductions committed by the separatist Abu Sayyaf and the MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Moro Islamic Liberation Front) make no distinction of creed or nationality, and contradict the teachings of the Koran”; Lilian B. Mercado a teacher of Muslim faith tells AsiaNews.
In the southern Philippines, for decades Islamists are at war with the central government. Initially the sought independence for Mindanao, then autonomy. Along with countless peace talks with Muslim leaders over the years, eroded by radical positions, recently there has been a growth of Islamic extremism and violence, especially rooted in the Abu Sayyaf group.
Born into a Catholic family in Mindanao 1948, at 26 Lilian chose, without coercion, to convert to Islam. Despite her decision, the four eldest daughters have kept the Catholic faith and only the youngest son is a Muslim.
Based on this inter-faith experience, she argues that the Philippine government and MILF "should set up a dialogue free of ulterior motives, which safeguards all the people of Mindanao, Muslims, Christians and indigenous lumad”.
Lilian, who for years lived and taught in Manila, says she recently visited Zamboanga City, where she spent most of her time within her home for fear of kidnapping. During her visit she witnessed firsthand the appalling living conditions of the population, which she rated as indescribable.
Indeed, Lilian believes that the poverty in which the people languish is on of the main causes of conflict, despite the fact that the region is rich in natural resources. She argues that "in parallel to peace talks with the MILF, the government should ensure completion of an economic development plan to allow the people of Mindanao to improve their living conditions."
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