The Council of Leaders for Peace Initiatives (CLPI) welcomed the recent statements from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) and the Negotiating Panel of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) regarding peace negotiations. Both sides expressed “willingness and optimism” that the preliminary talks between the two parties will continue into formal talks.

“We recall the joint statement signed in Oslo Norway last November 23, 2023 where the two parties agreed to work for a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict,” CLPI said.

The Oslo Joint Statement contains the declaration of the willingness to reopen the talks and the formulation of the negotiation framework. It was a general declaration that united the aspirations of both sides: solving “deep-rooted socio-economic and political issues” and “resolving the roots of the armed conflict,” on the part of the NDFP; and on the other side, the “end of the armed struggle” and “transformation of the CPP-NPA-NDFP,” which the GRP aims for.

The CLPI said it is pleased that the Marcos administration, as stated by OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr, is confident that it could sign the final peace agreement with the NDFP. Meanwhile, it is also happy with NDFP Negotiating Panel Chairperson Julie de Lima’s statement of openness to negotiation and dedication to achieving a just and lasting peace.

However, CLPI is concerned about some elements of the Marcos administration that continue to oppose what was agreed upon in the Oslo Joint Statement. They called on Marcos to instruct his officials opposing the peace talks to align with Secretary Galvez’s statement.

Amid these statements, CLPI believes it is time to move forward on the exploratory talks and agree on a framework for peace negotiations. “Among others, it would be helpful for both parties: to acknowledge the history of the peace process and the agreements that have been earlier agreed upon, to name the members of their respective panels, the main agenda items that are subject to negotiation and agreement, and a timeline/schedule of the talks,” the group said

It would also be good if there is an agreement or announcement of measures that will boost mutual confidence. Among the examples CLPI provided include the release of NDFP peace consultants, the formulation of protection, protocols and mechanisms for those participating in negotiations and short-term ceasefires.

“We look forward to more resolute steps towards this new beginning and offer full support and assistance of CLPI’s constituency to make sure the pathway to peace opens up, progress is made, and a good conclusion is achieved,” CLPI said.

The CLPI is composed of former commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights, Karen Gomez-Dumpit, Dr. Melba Maggay, Dean Manny Quibod, former Negros Occidental Gov. Lito Cosculluela, Atty. Leo Malagar, Koko Alviar, Dr. Mike Tan, Chris Millado, Mr. Ruby-nell Estrella, Bp. Colin Bagaforo, Abp. Jose Palma, Samira Gutoc, Rose Hajahay, Guiamel Mato Alim, former Ambassador Victoria Bataclan, Mitzi Tan, and Atty. Tony M.A. La Vina.

CLPI’s efforts coincide with the counterpart efforts of the Citizen’s Alliance for Just Peace (CAJP), an alliance of three major peace networks in the country-Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform (PEPP), Pilgrims for Peace, and Waging Peace Philippines.