With the peace process between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front well in progress such that a truce was already in force, and the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law already on its way through the legislative processes to enactment, what could have been the “trophy” that titillated those responsible for the misadventure?
For suspended Philippine National Police chief Alan Purisima—redemption? For President Aquino—misplaced loyalties?
What could be a historic integration of potentially a peaceful Mindanao into a progressive republic was placed at risk! This was followed by numerous investigations—completed and ongoing—which would have a significant bearing on the peace process itself. These investigations should serve to establish responsibilities that can then be judicially pursued, but they should not be allowed to impede the peace process itself.
—ALFREDO V. ASUNCION, avasuncion@hotmail.com