Initiated by the provincial government led by Gov. Roel Degamo, the candle-lighting ceremony for peace is in support of the resumption of peace talks between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front, and other left-leaning movements in the country.
Degamo said his administration is determined to achieve peace and bring development to the countryside.
The date which is 11.11.11 is doubly symbolic because it reminds the people of the end of World War I, organizers said.
The governor said bullets alone cannot win the hearts and minds of the rebels, as lasting peace will be achieved by bringing the government closer to the people through basic social services, farm to market roads, livelihood and infrastructure projects, among others.
Degamo requested all local chief executives to organize activities in their cities and municipalities, such as candle-lighting activity for the sake of peace and tranquility in the province.
In the province, the center of activities is the President Benigno Aquino Freedom Park, where simultaneous ringing of peace bells, sirens, and horns will be done.
The three representatives of the province have committed their support for peace, with students from all colleges and universities, non-government organizations, volunteers, government employees, the religious sector, civic clubs, business groups, the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.
The candle-lighting activity is in cooperation with the Bayanihan para sa Kabataan, People Power Volunteers for Reform, the Department of Education, Oriental Negros Children Advocacy Network, and the Philippine National Red Cross.
For her part, 1st District Rep. Josy Limkaichong expressed support for the peace process, saying Filipinos must, now more than ever, speak with one voice against the evils of war.
There should be no fence-sitters in this conflict, Limkaichong said in a statement furnished to media.
She said the President’s stand against all-out war on the MILF should be supported by all citizens who respect human dignity, who desire peace and order and who steadfastly uphold the rule of law.
An all out-war, Limkaichong said, will only derail the programs already started by President Aquino in the areas of social services, education, health, agriculture and tourism concerns and in creating a conducive atmosphere for investments and other economic activities in the country.
The cost of waging war against the MILF secessionist would only inflict more sufferings to the people of Mindanao, hence, it certainly is not the solution to the decades-old problem,” she said.
But she stressed, however, that those responsible for the treacherous attack which resulted to the death of our 19 valiant soldiers in Albarka, should not be allowed to escape the rule of law. Justice should be served to our brave soldiers and their grieving families. (with reports from PNA/Juancho Gallarde)
