GenSan asks Malacaņang for representation in GRP panel
General Santos City (31 October) -- The Sanggunian Panlungsod here recently requested President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to appoint two (2) representatives each from the League of Provinces, League of Cities, League of Municipalities, Vice-Mayors League, Provincial Board Members League and the Philippine Councilors League into the GRP Negotiating Panel. The request was manifested through a joint resolution number 305 series of September 2006.
"(A) perusal and analysis of the draft agreement between the GRP Negotiating Panel and MILF evidently manifested critical and arbitrary provisions affecting the lives and future of the greater majority of the people of Mindanao, thus prompting a number of LGUs in Mindanao to formally and vehemently express their reservation, if not objections thereto.
(There) is thus a necessity to expand membership of the GRP Negotiating Panel in order that the true sentiments of the people of Mindanao could be heard and taken into serious consideration in the negotiation to avoid collateral discontent and future social, political and ethnic problems. (And this) could be appropriately address(ed) by way of appointing representatives from the Mindanao Chapters of the Leagues of Provinces, Cities, and Municipalities as well as from the Leagues of Vice-Mayors, Provincial Board Members and City Councilors", the joint resolution quipped. (Luzvimi/PIA Sargen) [top]