Overreaction on Estrada comment on Mindanao problem

Writer Menardo Wenceslao’s “Hurry The Peace Pact” article was in reaction to former President Estrada’s comment in continuing the All Out War policy in Mindanao if ever he is elected President.

This is too overreacting.  A peace pact with the Moro rebels is something which should not be done haphazardly. Just because Erap is threatening to continue the war is no excuse of making half baked peace treaties with the rebels.  The danger of this is that the Arroyo administration might again do the same blunder in “hurrying up” the sealing of an agreement just because Erap will continue the war.

The said Erap comment should not be taken seriously. Though he may still have some followers, I doubt if Erap can win this time. Granting that Erap will win, I dont think on Day One he will stupidly unleash the war in Mindanao again without any reason. Its election time.  Politicians will make some announcements to entice voters to go for them.  In other words, its just pakulo or pasiklab, something politicians do in big meetings.

The Mindanao Peace Pact is something that should be seriously studied. I dont think its wise for the present administration to hurry its sealing just to claim the legacy of finally sealing the peace in Mindanao.  If it cant be done, then why force it now? The Peace Pact which can spell life and death in Mindanao must be carefully be crafted and this may even went beyond the administration of Gloria Arroyo to the next administration.

No need to hurry on this one.