OIC urges Manila to send representative

The Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) has asked a Philippines government representative to attend the meeting of deputy foreign ministers who will discuss the implementation of the 1996 government-Moro National Liberation (MNLF) Front peace agreement, said the Foreign Undersecretary.

Lauro Baja said Indonesian Foreign Minister Nur Hassan Wirajuda had informed him the Philippines could "attend and participate" in the meeting of the OIC committee that monitors the peace process between Manila and the MNLF. It is to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, later this month.

"This is the first time we've been invited to the OIC senior officials' meeting. This is important because we will be able to air our concerns," said Baja.

Philippines chief peace negotiator Eduardo Ermita, "will likely represent the government", said Baja.

Previously, the Philippines government had to lobby with OIC ministers on the sidelines and guide them on official statements regarding the Muslim problem in Mindanao,

The invitation comes after MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari was imprisoned for attempting to renew the armed struggle in Jolo, Sulu, and Zamboanga City.

The government claimed Misuari, in his attempt, was trying to disrupt the November 2001 autonomous region elections. He is now in detention and faces charges of rebellion.

Misuari has raised the issue of the MNLF leadership before the OIC, following his ouster as MNLF chair in April 2001. The MNLF has observer status in the OIC.

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo had backed Parouk Hussin, Misuari's rival as gubernatorial candidate in the elections. Misuari was elected governor of the autonomous region following the 1996 peace settlement, which was brokered by the OIC.