(Eagle News)–The Palace on Tuesday, Nov. 20, said National Democratic Front of the Philippines’ Luis Jalandoni’s concern he would be arrested upon his arrival in the Philippines was “misplaced.”
“Given that the President has opened a venue for informal talks with the NDF leaders to explore the possibility of resuming the peace talks, it goes without saying that no arrest shall be made during the days of informal talks,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said.
He said that in the first place, “Mr. Jalandoni’s intention in returning to the country is to promote the peace talks between their movement and the Philippine government.”
“He is assured therefore that no arrest will be effected upon his person,” Panelo said.
“To think otherwise is contrary to logic for certainly, a successful amicable discussion between the parties cannot be expected when one party’s liberty is threatened to be — compromised,” he added.
In a statement on Monday, Nov. 19, Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison said the scheduled trip of the NDFP’s Jalandoni, Coni Ledesma and Fidel Agcaoili to the Philippines was cancelled due to security concerns.
Peace Secretary Jesus Dureza had said they were scheduled to meet him and Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo as instructed by President Duterte.
