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Press the peace
All indicators show an up-trend in
the economic graph of the country. No amount of
obstructionism from the political opposition and the
radical left can stop the influx of foreign investments
and the optimism brought about by the dramatic
improvement of the domestic economy and the efficient
fiscal management of government resources by the Arroyo
administration.
It is unfortunate however that these rosy statistics are
not what is obtaining in the Autonomous Region of Muslim
Mindanao despite the billion of pesos and foreign aid
that are poured in the region. One need not research why
or search for an answer here or there. The protracted
conflict engendered by separatist elements and clans war
have brought upon this region the curse that dragged
this area with such a vast and diversified resources to
the bottomless pit of misery and want.
The secessionist struggle did not achieve anything
except driving a wedge between inter-faith cooperation
and partnerships that have flourished in the past. After
the failed attempts to secede and establish a Bangsa
Moro Republic the peace loving Muslims, Christians and
the Indigenous Peoples in Mindanao have gone weary over
the prolonged negotiation for a stable peace in the
region. Apparently, it is only in the atmosphere of
peace and security that investors will comeback to the
region. While it may have all the potentials, there is
no amount of cajolery and assurances that can bring
capital to ARMM for as long as the threat for renewed
hostilities hovers.
Indeed, it is easier and quicker to destroy than to
build or rebuild confidence. He hates to admit it, but
in his bid to bring in investors, there are more
Christians who expressed willingness to expand to the
Autonomous region provided they are assured of peace and
freedom from harassment.
Hard-earned capital is scared money and therefore will
evade threats to stability and peace. For as long as the
fingers of armed elements stay in the trigger of the
guns, the condition in the autonomous region will remain
volatile. Thus for now, ARMM will stay in the lowest
economic rung. It will stay that way for sometime until
such time that peace is achieved. – MIRIAM DAHUNOG,
Cotabato City, miriamdahunog70@yahoo.com |
