Manila: Malaca±ang on Friday highlighted the necessity for more in-depth discussions between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) following the suspension of the final phase of decommissioning of combatants and firearms. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro expressed concern, noting the government's commitment to funding a brighter future for those seeking a return to normalcy.

According to Philippines News Agency, the MILF Central Committee has suspended the decommissioning of its remaining 14,000 combatants and 2,450 weapons, citing the Philippine government's alleged failure to fulfill crucial provisions of the 2014 peace agreement. The MILF stated that decommissioning would resume only when the government demonstrates "substantial compliance" with its normalization commitments, particularly the socio-economic support for the 26,145 decommissioned combatants.

Castro conveyed optimism about the upcoming negotiations with the MILF, emphasizing the government's readiness to collaborate and provide assistance to decommissioned combatants. She underscored the allocation of PHP100,000 cash assistance for each MILF combatant and over PHP400 billion dedicated to socio-economic programs.

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) expressed disappointment over the delay in the decommissioning process on Thursday, describing it as a setback for the Bangsamoro peace process.