4 July 2012 – The Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur said today that the Philippine government (GRP) is committed to reaching an agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), starting with the signing of decision points on principles by the two sides last April 24,giving significant impetus for a successful conclusion of the negotiations

"The decision points is a preliminary listing of 12 common points which the two parties have identified coming from their respective positions. It can be read as a memorandum for the two parties of the general directions of the substantive negotiations, described in broad strokes, generous enough to allow them the necessary space to navigate the details and context in a comprehensive final agreement," Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya said.

The decision points cover the parties' consensus on matters pertaining to governance, power and wealth sharing, and establishment of monitoring and evaluation systems, among others.

"Both parties are hopefully in the closing months of negotiations, which is ongoing practically every month in Kuala Lumpur, and we are grateful to the to the Malaysian government for their facilitation of the talks and for being our partner in the quest for a durable and lasting peace and economic development in the affection region in Mindanao," he added. Malaysia is the third-party facilitator of the said peace talks.

"The Philippine government is committed to have an agreement signed within the year. To do so, the two parties is and will need to undertake a continuing serious and often contentious negotiations, as well as display sincerity and commitment in reaching that goal," he said. END