Guidelines for Mutual Understanding between the CCCH of the GPH and the MILF for Ceasefire-related Functions during the 13 May 2013 National and Local Elections

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Country/entity: Philippines
Mindanao
Region: Asia and Pacific
Agreement name: Guidelines for Mutual Understanding between the CCCH of the GPH and the MILF for Ceasefire-related Functions during the 13 May 2013 National and Local Elections
Date: 22 Apr 2013
Agreement status: Multiparty signed/agreed
Interim arrangement: Yes
Agreement/conflict level: Intrastate/intrastate conflict
Philippine Insurgencies (1968 - )
The Maoist Insurgencies (1968 - )

Philippines-NDF

The Philippines have been defined by a series of center-periphery and often ideologically Maoist, separatist insurgencies. The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), began its war against the central Philippine government in 1968 through their armed wing – the New People’s Army (NPA). Further legitimacy was gained through the establishment of the National Democratic Front (NDF) in 1973. Grievances were predominantly opposed to the corruption and repression under the authoritarian Marcos regime.

Philippines-Cordillera

With the overthrow of Marcos’ regime in 1986, the CPP factionalized further to take on more localized characteristics. The Cordillera Peoples Liberation Army (CPLA) broke away from the NDF in 1986 to focus on the protection of the Cordilleran people and land in northern Luzon. Hostilities were formally ended in July 2011, with an agreement signed between the central government, the CPLA and the Cordillera Bodong Administration (CBA) that allowed for the absorption of CPLA fighters into the Philippine Army and the re-working of the CBA-CPLA into a socio-development organisation.

Philippines-RPM-P

Meanwhile, purge among the CPP in the early 1990s, encouraged the formation of a parallel party, the Revolutionary Workers Party (RPM-P). Their armed wing, the Alex Boncayao Brigade (ABB) which had carried out a number of assassinations during the 1980s at the bequest of the CPP, followed suit and allied themselves with the RPM-P in 1997 forming the (RPM-P-RPA-ABB). Severely weakened by the split with the CPP and with the arrest of several key figures, the RPM-P-RPA-ABB signed a peace agreement in December 2000, which encouraged the RPM-P’s branch in Mindanao to break away in 2001.

The CPP-NPA has only participated in intermittent talks with the government. Talks halted in 2004 when Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s administration sought closer ties with the U.S. in the war on terror and added the CPP-NPA to the list of terrorist organisations, renewing violence. Following the launch of a counter-insurgency by the Philippine government, negotiations have been further delayed due to suspected internal differences between the CPP ‘old guard’ and younger members.

The Moro Insurgency (1968 - )

Philippines-Mindanao

The Moro Insurgency began in 1968, in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago after the killing of Moro Commandos, the so-called Jabidah Massacre, by the Philippine Army following a plot to invade Sabah province in Malaysia. The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) captured a swath of territory in the mid-1970s. In an attempt to stem the violence, the constitution was reformed and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) was created 1990 granting a devolution of power to the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. Following the establishment of the ARMM, the MNLF splintered into a range of smaller groups including Islamic factions such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Abu Sayef Goup (ASG). The Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro was signed in 2014.
Stage: Ceasefire/related
Conflict nature: Government/territory
Peace process: Philippines - Mindanao process
Parties: For the GRP CCCH: Bgen Cesar Dionisio T Sedillo Jr, AFP, Chairman; For the MILF CCCH: Said Sheik, Al Haj, Chairman
Third parties: Witness and conforme': Mgen Dato' Fadzil Bin Mokhtar, Head Mission for the International Monitoring Team – M8
Description: Agreement in its entirety is an extension of the cessation of hostilities during the GPH-MILF Ceasefire and peace process, establishing mutual understanding and guidelines to safeguard the election specifically from 22 April 2013 to 20 May 2013 with coordination of implementation from the IMT-M8.

Agreement document: PH_130422_Guidelines for Mutual Understanding.pdf (opens in new tab) | Download PDF

Groups

Children/youth: No specific mention.
Disabled persons: No specific mention.
Elderly/age: No specific mention.
Migrant workers: No specific mention.
Racial/ethnic/national group: No specific mention.
Religious groups: No specific mention.
Indigenous people: No specific mention.
Other groups: No specific mention.
Refugees/displaced persons: Groups→Refugees/displaced persons→Substantive
Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
13. The GPH-CCCH and the MILF-CCCH jointly shall find ways to provide assistance to the MILF members and families who are temporarily displaces as the guidelines are being implemented. Moreover, the MILF through it CCCH shall provide necessary data/information on the affected MILF members and families. To insure safety, the displaced MILF members and families shall be located to mutually agreed upon areas. In case election paraphernalia are scheduled to be deployed, for this purpose, movement shall be done before the final testing, and sealing of PCOS machines, at least sever (7) days before the election […].
Social class: No specific mention.

Gender

Women, girls and gender: No specific mention.
Men and boys: No specific mention.
LGBTI: No specific mention.
Family: Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
13. The GPH-CCCH and the MILF-CCCH jointly shall find ways to provide assistance to the MILF members and families who are temporarily displaces as the guidelines are being implemented. Moreover, the MILF through it CCCH shall provide necessary data/information on the affected MILF members and families. To insure safety, the displaced MILF members and families shall be located to mutually agreed upon areas. In case election paraphernalia are scheduled to be deployed, for this purpose, movement shall be done before the final testing, and sealing of PCOS machines, at least sever (7) days before the election […].

State definition

Nature of state (general): No specific mention.
State configuration: No specific mention.
Self determination: No specific mention.
Referendum: No specific mention.
State symbols: No specific mention.
Independence/secession: No specific mention.
Accession/unification: No specific mention.
Border delimitation: No specific mention.
Cross-border provision: No specific mention.

Governance

Political institutions (new or reformed): No specific mention.
Elections: Page 1, I. References
1. COMELEC Resolution No. 9561- A, “The Ban on bearing, carrying or transporting of firearms or other deadly weapons; and employment, availment or engagement of the services security personnel or bodyguards during the election period for the May 13 2013 automated synchronized National, Local elections and ARM Regional Elections.”

Page 1, I. References
3. Agenda No. IV: Mid-term Elections on May 2013: COMELEC Resolution re: gun ban and drafting of GPH CCCH-IMT MILF CCCH Guidelines for Mutual Understanding during the 43rd GPH CCCH-MILF CCCH MEETING at the East Asia Royale Hotel, General Santos City last 19 February 2013.

Page 1, II. Purpose
To safeguard the GPH - MILF Agreement on the General Cessation of Hostilities, the Security Aspect of the GPH-MILF Agreement on Peace of June 22, 2001; GPH Declaration of Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (SOMO) of 23 July, 2009 and MILF’s Memorandum of Suspension of Military Action (SOMA) of 25 July 2009; the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the GPH – MILF Peace Process, in general from adverse effects and repercussions while the government ensures the conduct of honest, orderly and peaceful elections on May 13, 2013.

Page 2, III. Implementation Timeframe
This endeavor shall be implemented during the critical period of the election from 22 April 2013 to 20 May 2013, as agreed upon by the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH with the concurrence of the IMT M8.

Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
2. This undertaking is purely a GPH - MILF ceasefire and peace process- related function and only incidental but not as a Philippine elections-related function. This is not to be interpreted as MILF's inconsistency to its standing policy not to take part or meddle in whatever capacity on the government electoral processes.

Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
3. During the stipulated timeframe of the National Elections, the IMT M8 involvement shall only be to monitor the implementation of the Agreement on Peace between the GPH and the MILF of 22 June 2001 and its Implementing Guidelines on the Security Aspect of 7 August 2001; Implementing Guidelines on the Humanitarian , Rehabilitation and Development Aspects of 7 May 2002 (Tripoli Agreement); Agreement on the Civilian Protection Component (CPC) of the IMT of 27 October 2009; the adherence of the GPH and the MILF to the SOMO and SOMA of 23 July 2009 and 25 July 2009, respectively; and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB). This undertaking is to safeguard the GPH-MILF ceasefire and support the ongoing peace process inherent to the IMT mandate.

Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
4. Hitherto, the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH shall ensure and warrant, and the IMT shall coordinate and monitor the unhindered movements and deployment of election personnel, equipment , paraphernalia, documents, voters, AFP I PNP election security personnel, as deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), to and from all the Polling Centers situated within the MILF dominated areas.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
5. The deployment of the deputized AFP and PNP election security personnel shall start upon withdrawal of the Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) automated machines from the main hubs designated by the COMELEC to the municipalities then to the polling centers, Testing of PCOS automated machines, Election day on 13 May 2013 and until the recovery/pull-out of PCOS automated machines and other election paraphernalia after the holding of elections on 13 May 2013. Upon completion of all election functions within the MILF dominated areas, the deputized AFP/PNP election security personnel deployed thereat shall pull out immediately.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
7. The strength of the deputized PNP I AFP election security personnel to be deployed in the MILF dominated areas shall be coordinated so as not to create unnecessary alarm and apprehension to the MILF forces and civilian communities that might jeopardize the ceasefire and the peace process.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
9. The MILF shall refrain from consolidating its forces for any purpose/s including peace gatherings from the time the PCOS Machines are deployed until the Election has been completed except at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao,Camp Bushra in Lanao del Sur, and in the urban centers, when necessary.and in coordination with the GPH CCCH.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
10. The MILF armed elements should not go near polling centers and precincts, avoid display of firearms and uniforms along routes leading to the areas where electoral activities are ongoing.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
11. The GPH CCCH shall provide the MILF CCCH and IMT the official list of Polling Centers which are of interest for the implementation of these guidelines.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
12. In case of any reported untoward incident, the deputized PNP/AFP election security personnel shall take appropriate action in coordination with the GPH CCCH, the MILF CCCH the GPH AHJAG, the MILF AHJAG and the IMT MB or vice versa as the case maybe.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
13. The GPH-CCCH and the MILF-CCCH jointly shall find ways to provide assistance to the MILF members and families who are temporarily displaces as the guidelines are being implemented. Moreover, the MILF through it CCCH shall provide necessary data/information on the affected MILF members and families. To insure safety, the displaced MILF members and families shall be located to mutually agreed upon areas. In case election paraphernalia are scheduled to be deployed, for this purpose, movement shall be done before the final testing, and sealing of PCOS machines, at least sever (7) days before the election (Note: scheduled by COMELEC on 06 May 2013) and the delivery/distribution of election paraphernalia from the COMELEC-designated area to various polling precincts a day prior to the election (Note: scheduled by COMELEC on 12 May 2013) until the completion of the Election and withdrawal of all paraphernalia, equipment, COMELEC Deputized security forces and Election Officials.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
14. It is mutually agreed that security/personnel deployed within areas with presence of MILF be withdrawn immediately after the conduct of elections and withdrawal of PCOS automated machines and Election paraphernalia and personnel.
Electoral commission: No specific mention.
Political parties reform: No specific mention.
Civil society: No specific mention.
Traditional/religious leaders: No specific mention.
Public administration: No specific mention.
Constitution: No specific mention.

Power sharing

Political power sharing: No specific mention.
Territorial power sharing: No specific mention.
Economic power sharing: No specific mention.
Military power sharing: No specific mention.

Human rights and equality

Human rights/RoL general: No specific mention.
Bill of rights/similar: No specific mention.
Treaty incorporation: No specific mention.
Civil and political rights: No specific mention.
Socio-economic rights: No specific mention.

Rights related issues

Citizenship: No specific mention.
Democracy: No specific mention.
Detention procedures: No specific mention.
Media and communication: No specific mention.
Mobility/access: Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
4. Hitherto, the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH shall ensure and warrant, and the IMT shall coordinate and monitor the unhindered movements and deployment of election personnel, equipment , paraphernalia, documents, voters, AFP I PNP election security personnel, as deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), to and from all the Polling Centers situated within the MILF dominated areas.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
8. The main routes, water and land usually used by the MILF troops during movements and activities shall be left opened. Provided, however that MILF movements are property coordinated earlier with the GPH CCCH and the existing ceasefire mechanisms.
Protection measures: Rights related issues→Protection measures→Other
Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
3. During the stipulated timeframe of the National Elections, the IMT M8 involvement shall only be to monitor the implementation of the Agreement on Peace between the GPH and the MILF of 22 June 2001 and its Implementing Guidelines on the Security Aspect of 7 August 2001; Implementing Guidelines on the Humanitarian , Rehabilitation and Development Aspects of 7 May 2002 (Tripoli Agreement); Agreement on the Civilian Protection Component (CPC) of the IMT of 27 October 2009; the adherence of the GPH and the MILF to the SOMO and SOMA of 23 July 2009 and 25 July 2009, respectively; and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB). This undertaking is to safeguard the GPH-MILF ceasefire and support the ongoing peace process inherent to the IMT mandate.
Other: No specific mention.

Rights institutions

NHRI: No specific mention.
Regional or international human rights institutions: No specific mention.

Justice sector reform

Criminal justice and emergency law: No specific mention.
State of emergency provisions: No specific mention.
Judiciary and courts: No specific mention.
Prisons and detention: No specific mention.
Traditional Laws: No specific mention.

Socio-economic reconstruction

Development or socio-economic reconstruction: No specific mention.
National economic plan: No specific mention.
Natural resources: No specific mention.
International funds: No specific mention.
Business: No specific mention.
Taxation: No specific mention.
Banks: No specific mention.

Land, property and environment

Land reform/rights: No specific mention.
Pastoralist/nomadism rights: No specific mention.
Cultural heritage: No specific mention.
Environment: No specific mention.
Water or riparian rights or access: Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
8. The main routes, water and land usually used by the MILF troops during movements and activities shall be left opened. Provided, however that MILF movements are property coordinated earlier with the GPH CCCH and the existing ceasefire mechanisms.

Security sector

Security Guarantees: No specific mention.
Ceasefire: Security sector→Ceasefire→Ceasefire provision
Page 1, I. References
1. COMELEC Resolution No. 9561- A, “The Ban on bearing, carrying or transporting of firearms or other deadly weapons; and employment, availment or engagement of the services security personnel or bodyguards during the election period for the May 13 2013 automated synchronized National, Local elections and ARM Regional Elections.”

Page 1, I. References
2. Instructions from the respective principals of the GPH-CCCH and MILF CCCH anchored on the goodwill and confidence building of the GPH-MILF Peace Process with the participation of the Malaysia-led International Monitoring Team (IMT), as appropriate.

Page 1, I. References
3. Agenda No. IV: Mid-term Elections on May 2013: COMELEC Resolution re: gun ban and drafting of GPH CCCH-IMT MILF CCCH Guidelines for Mutual Understanding during the 43rd GPH CCCH-MILF CCCH MEETING at the East Asia Royale Hotel, General Santos City last 19 February 2013.

Page 1, I. References
4. GPH’s Suspension of Offensive Military Operation (SOMO) of July 23, 2009.

Page 1, I. References
5. MILF’s Suspension of Military Action (SOMA) of July 25, 2009.

Page 1, I. Reference
6. GPH-MILF Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities of July 18, 1997.

Page 1, II. Purpose
To safeguard the GPH - MILF Agreement on the General Cessation of Hostilities, the Security Aspect of the GPH-MILF Agreement on Peace of June 22, 2001; GPH Declaration of Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (SOMO) of 23 July, 2009 and MILF’s Memorandum of Suspension of Military Action (SOMA) of 25 July 2009; the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the GPH – MILF Peace Process, in general from adverse effects and repercussions while the government ensures the conduct of honest, orderly and peaceful elections on May 13, 2013.

Page 2, III. Implementation Timeframe
This endeavor shall be implemented during the critical period of the election from 22 April 2013 to 20 May 2013, as agreed upon by the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH with the concurrence of the IMT M8.

Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
2. This undertaking is purely a GPH - MILF ceasefire and peace process-related function and only incidental but not as a Philippine elections-related function. This is not to be interpreted as MILF's inconsistency to its standing policy not to take part or meddle in whatever capacity on the government electoral processes.

Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
3. During the stipulated timeframe of the National Elections, the IMT M8 involvement shall only be to monitor the implementation of the Agreement on Peace between the GPH and the MILF of 22 June 2001 and its Implementing Guidelines on the Security Aspect of 7 August 2001; Implementing Guidelines on the Humanitarian , Rehabilitation and Development Aspects of 7 May 2002 (Tripoli Agreement); Agreement on the Civilian Protection Component (CPC) of the IMT of 27 October 2009; the adherence of the GPH and the MILF to the SOMO and SOMA of 23 July 2009 and 25 July 2009, respectively; and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB). This undertaking is to safeguard the GPH-MILF ceasefire and support the ongoing peace process inherent to the IMT mandate.

Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
4. Hitherto, the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH shall ensure and warrant, and the IMT shall coordinate and monitor the unhindered movements and deployment of election personnel, equipment , paraphernalia, documents, voters, AFP I PNP election security personnel, as deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), to and from all the Polling Centers situated within the
MILF dominated areas.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
5. The deployment of the deputized AFP and PNP election security personnel shall start upon withdrawal of the Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) automated machines from the main hubs designated by the COMELEC to the municipalities then to the polling centers, Testing of PCOS automated machines, Election day on 13 May 2013 and until the recovery/pull-out of PCOS automated machines and other election paraphernalia after the holding of elections on 13 May 2013. Upon completion of all election functions within the MILF dominated areas, the deputized AFP/PNP election security personnel deployed thereat shall pull out immediately.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
6. The Joint Ceasefire Monitoring Post (JCMPs) [...] composed of personnel from the GPH CCCH, MILF CCCH and the Bantay Ceasefire of the Mindanao People's Caucus (MPC) with the IMT's assistance and the Local Monitoring Teams [...] shall be designated as the monitoring and quick response team (QRT) of the JCCCH and IMT for this endeavor. Additional JCMPs could be set up in other areas when necessary.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
7. The strength of the deputized PNP I AFP election security personnel to be deployed in the MILF dominated areas shall be coordinated so as not to create unnecessary alarm and apprehension to the MILF forces and civilian communities that might jeopardize the ceasefire and the peace process.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
8. The main routes, water and land usually used by the MILF troops during movements and activities shall be left opened. Provided, however that MILF movements are property coordinated earlier with the GPH CCCH and the existing ceasefire mechanisms.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
9. The MILF shall refrain from consolidating its forces for any purpose/s including peace gatherings from the time the PCOS Machines are deployed until the Election has been completed except at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao,Camp Bushra in Lanao del Sur, and in the urban centers, when necessary.and in coordination with the GPH CCCH.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
10. The MILF armed elements should not go near polling centers and precincts, avoid display of firearms and uniforms along routes leading to the areas where electoral activities are ongoing.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
11. The GPH CCCH shall provide the MILF CCCH and IMT the official list of Polling Centers which are of interest for the implementation of these guidelines.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
12. In case of any reported untoward incident, the deputized PNP/AFP election security personnel shall take appropriate action in coordination with the GPH CCCH, the MILF CCCH the GPH AHJAG, the MILF AHJAG and the IMT MB or vice versa as the case maybe.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
13. The GPH-CCCH and the MILF-CCCH jointly shall find ways to provide assistance to the MILF members and families who are temporarily displaces as the guidelines are being implemented. Moreover, the MILF through it CCCH shall provide necessary data/information on the affected MILF members and families. To insure safety, the displaced MILF members and families shall be located to mutually agreed upon areas. In case election paraphernalia are scheduled to be deployed, for this purpose, movement shall be done before the final testing, and sealing of PCOS machines, at least sever (7) days before the election (Note: scheduled by COMELEC on 06 May 2013) and the delivery/distribution of election paraphernalia from the COMELEC-designated area to various polling precincts a day prior to the election (Note: scheduled by COMELEC on 12 May 2013) until the completion of the Election and withdrawal of all paraphernalia, equipment, COMELEC Deputized security forces and Election Officials.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
14. It is mutually agreed that security/personnel deployed within areas with presence of MILF be withdrawn immediately after the conduct of elections and withdrawal of PCOS automated machines and Election paraphernalia and personnel.
Police: Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
4. Hitherto, the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH shall ensure and warrant, and the IMT shall coordinate and monitor the unhindered movements and deployment of election personnel, equipment , paraphernalia, documents, voters, AFP/PNP election security personnel, as deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), to and from all the Polling Centers situated within the MILF dominated areas.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
5. The deployment of the deputized AFP and PNP election security personnel shall start upon withdrawal of the Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) automated machines from the main hubs designated by the COMELEC to the municipalities then to the polling centers, Testing of PCOS automated machines, Election day on 13 May 2013 and until the recovery/pull-out of PCOS automated machines and other election paraphernalia after the holding of elections on 13 May 2013. Upon completion of all election functions within the MILF dominated areas, the deputized AFP/PNP election security personnel deployed thereat shall pull out immediately.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
7. The strength of the deputized PNP/AFP election security personnel to be deployed in the MILF dominated areas shall be coordinated so as not to create unnecessary alarm and apprehension to the MILF forces and civilian communities that might jeopardize the ceasefire and the peace process.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
12. In case of any reported untoward incident, the deputized PNP/AFP election security personnel shall take appropriate action in coordination with the GPH CCCH, the MILF CCCH the GPH AHJAG, the MILF AHJAG and the IMT MB or vice versa as the case maybe.
Armed forces: Page 1, I. References
4. GPH’s Suspension of Offensive Military Operation (SOMO) of July 23, 2009.

Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
4. Hitherto, the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH shall ensure and warrant, and the IMT shall coordinate and monitor the unhindered movements and deployment of election personnel, equipment , paraphernalia, documents, voters, AFP/PNP election security personnel, as deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), to and from all the Polling Centers situated within the MILF dominated areas.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
5. The deployment of the deputized AFP and PNP election security personnel shall start upon withdrawal of the Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) automated machines from the main hubs designated by the COMELEC to the municipalities then to the polling centers, Testing of PCOS automated machines, Election day on 13 May 2013 and until the recovery/pull-out of PCOS automated machines and other election paraphernalia after the holding of elections on 13 May 2013. Upon completion of all election functions within the MILF dominated areas, the deputized AFP/PNP election security personnel deployed thereat shall pull out immediately.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
7. The strength of the deputized PNP/AFP election security personnel to be deployed in the MILF dominated areas shall be coordinated so as not to create unnecessary alarm and apprehension to the MILF forces and civilian communities that might jeopardize the ceasefire and the peace process.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
12. In case of any reported untoward incident, the deputized PNP/AFP election security personnel shall take appropriate action in coordination with the GPH CCCH, the MILF CCCH the GPH AHJAG, the MILF AHJAG and the IMT MB or vice versa as the case maybe.
DDR: No specific mention.
Intelligence services: No specific mention.
Parastatal/rebel and opposition group forces: Page 1, I. References
5. MILF’s Suspension of Military Action (SOMA) of July 25, 2009.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
7. The strength of the deputized PNP I AFP election security personnel to be deployed in the MILF dominated areas shall be coordinated so as not to create unnecessary alarm and apprehension to the MILF forces and civilian communities that might jeopardize the ceasefire and the peace process.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
8. The main routes, water and land usually used by the MILF troops during movements and activities shall be left opened. Provided, however that MILF movements are property coordinated earlier with the GPH CCCH and the existing ceasefire mechanisms.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
9. The MILF shall refrain from consolidating its forces for any purpose/s including peace gatherings from the time the PCOS Machines are deployed until the Election has been completed except at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao,Camp Bushra in Lanao del Sur, and in the urban centers, when necessary and in coordination with the GPH CCCH.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
10. The MILF armed elements should not go near polling centers and precincts, avoid display of firearms and uniforms along routes leading to the areas where electoral activities are ongoing.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
13. The GPH-CCCH and the MILF-CCCH jointly shall find ways to provide assistance to the MILF members and families who are temporarily displaces as the guidelines are being implemented. Moreover, the MILF through it CCCH shall provide necessary data/information on the affected MILF members and families. To insure safety, the displaced MILF members and families shall be located to mutually agreed upon areas. In case election paraphernalia are scheduled to be deployed, for this purpose, movement shall be done before the final testing, and sealing of PCOS machines, at least sever (7) days before the election (Note: scheduled by COMELEC on 06 May 2013) and the delivery/distribution of election paraphernalia from the COMELEC-designated area to various polling precincts a day prior to the election (Note: scheduled by COMELEC on 12 May 2013) until the completion of the Election and withdrawal of all paraphernalia, equipment, COMELEC Deputized security forces and Election Officials.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
14. It is mutually agreed that security/personnel deployed within areas with presence of MILF be withdrawn immediately after the conduct of elections and withdrawal of PCOS automated machines and Election paraphernalia and personnel.
Withdrawal of foreign forces: No specific mention.
Corruption: No specific mention.
Crime/organised crime: No specific mention.
Drugs: No specific mention.
Terrorism: No specific mention.

Transitional justice

Transitional justice general: No specific mention.
Amnesty/pardon: No specific mention.
Courts: No specific mention.
Mechanism: No specific mention.
Prisoner release: No specific mention.
Vetting: No specific mention.
Victims: No specific mention.
Missing persons: No specific mention.
Reparations: No specific mention.
Reconciliation: No specific mention.

Implementation

UN signatory: No specific mention.
Other international signatory: Witness and conforme': Mgen Dato' Fadzil Bin Mokhtar, Head Mission for the International Monitoring Team – M8
Referendum for agreement: No specific mention.
International mission/force/similar: No specific mention.
Enforcement mechanism: Page 2, IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines
1. The Government of the Republic of the Philippines – Moro Islamic Liberation Front Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities (GPH CCCH - MILF CCCH) in cooperation with the
International Monitoring Team (IMT) Mindanao 8 shall undertake heightened special ceasefire-related functions in order to safeguard the GPH - MILF Ceasefire and peace process
3. During the stipulated timeframe of the National Elections, the IMT M8 involvement shall only be to monitor the implementation of the Agreement on Peace between the GPH and the MILF of 22 June 2001 and its Implementing Guidelines on the Security Aspect of 7 August 2001; Implementing Guidelines on the Humanitarian , Rehabilitation and Development Aspects of 7 May 2002 (Tripoli Agreement); Agreement on the Civilian Protection Component (CPC) of the IMT of 27 October 2009; the adherence of the GPH and the MILF to the SOMO and SOMA of 23 July 2009 and 25 July 2009, respectively; and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB). This undertaking is to safeguard the GPH-MILF ceasefire and support the ongoing peace process inherent to the IMT mandate.
4. Hitherto, the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH shall ensure and warrant, and the IMT shall coordinate and monitor the unhindered movements and deployment of election personnel, equipment , paraphernalia, documents, voters, AFP I PNP election security personnel, as deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), to and from all the Polling Centers situated within the
MILF dominated areas.

Page 3, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
6. The Joint Ceasefire Monitoring Post (JCMPs) in Barangay Mudseng, Midsayap, Cotabato; Barangay Kitango, Datu Saudie Ampatuan, Maguindanao; Brgy Bagoinged, Pikit, Cotabato; Brgy Nanagun, Butig, Lanao del Sur; Brgy Daliao, Maasim, Sarangani; Poona Piagapo, Lanao del Norte; and Tipo-Tipo Basilan Province composed of personnel from the GPH CCCH, the MILF CCCH and the Bantay Ceasefire of the Mindanao People's Caucus (MPC) with the IMT's assistance and the Local Monitoring Teams in Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani Province, and South Cotabato shall be designated as the monitoring and quick response team (QRT) of the JCCCH and IMT for this endeavor. Additional JCMPs could be set up in other areas, when necessary.
8. The main routes, water and land usually used by the MILF troops during movements and activities shall be left opened. Provided, however that MILF movements are property coordinated earlier with the GPH CCCH and the existing ceasefire mechanisms.

Page 4, IV. Mutual Understanding and Guidelines
11. The GPH CCCH shall provide the MILF CCCH and IMT the official list of Polling Centers which are of interest for the implementation of these guidelines.
12. In case of any reported untoward incident, the deputized PNP/AFP election security personnel shall take appropriate action in coordination with the GPH CCCH, the MILF CCCH the GPH AHJAG, the MILF AHJAG and the IMT MB or vice versa as the case maybe.

See Police.
Related cases: No specific mention.
Source: UN Peacemaker http://peacemaker.un.org/philippines-MOU-midtermelections2013

In the Name of God, The Beneficient, The Merciful

GUIDELINES FOR MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING

BETWEEN THE COORDINATING COMMITTEES ON THE CESSATION OF HOSTILITIES OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES AND THE MORO ISLAMIC LIBERATION FRONT FOR CEASEFIRE-RELATED FUNCTIONS DURING THE MAY 13, 2013 NATIONAL and LOCAL ELECTIONS

I. References

1. COMELEC Resolution No.

9561- A, “The Ban on bearing, carrying or transporting of firearms or other deadly weapons;

and employment, availment or engagement of the services security personnel or bodyguards during the election period for the May 13 2013 automated synchronized National, Local elections and ARM Regional Elections.”

2. Instructions from the respective principals of the GPH-CCCH and MILF CCCH anchored on the goodwill and confidence building of the GPH-MILF Peace Process with the participation of the Malaysia-led International Monitoring Team (IMT), as appropriate.

3. Agenda No.

IV:

Mid-term Elections on May 2013:

COMELEC Resolution re:

gun ban and drafting of GPH CCCH-IMT MILF CCCH Guidelines for Mutual Understanding during the 43rd GPH CCCH-MILF CCCH MEETING at the East Asia Royale Hotel, General Santos City last 19 February 2013.

4. GPH’s Suspension of Offensive Military Operation (SOMO) of July 23, 2009.

5. MILF’s Suspension of Military Action (SOMA) of July 25, 2009.

6. GPH-MILF Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities of July 18, 1997.

7. GPH - MILF Agreement on Peace of June 22, 2001 and its Implementing Guidelines for the Security Aspect.

8. Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) dated 15 October 2012.

II. Purpose

To safeguard the GPH - MILF Agreement on the General Cessation of Hostilities, the Security Aspect of the GPH-MILF Agreement on Peace of June 22, 2001;

GPH Declaration of Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (SOMO) of 23 July, 2009 and MILF’s Memorandum of Suspension of Military Action (SOMA) of 25 July 2009;

the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the GPH – MILF Peace Process, in general from adverse effects and repercussions while the government ensures the conduct of honest, orderly and peaceful elections on May 13, 2013.

III. Implementation Timeframe

This endeavor shall be implemented during the critical period of the election from 22 April 2013 to 20 May 2013, as agreed upon by the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH with the concurrence of the IMT M8.

IV. Mutual Understanding Guidelines

2. This undertaking is purely a GPH - MILF ceasefire and peace process-related function and only incidental but not as a Philippine elections-related function.

This is not to be interpreted as MILF's inconsistency to its standing policy not to take part or meddle in whatever capacity on the government electoral processes.

3. During the stipulated timeframe of the National Elections, the IMT M8 involvement shall only be to monitor the implementation of the Agreement on Peace between the GPH and the MILF of 22 June 2001 and its Implementing Guidelines on the Security Aspect of 7 August 2001;

Implementing Guidelines on the Humanitarian , Rehabilitation and Development Aspects of 7 May 2002 (Tripoli Agreement);

Agreement on the Civilian Protection Component (CPC) of the IMT of 27 October 2009;

the adherence of the GPH and the MILF to the SOMO and SOMA of 23 July 2009 and 25 July 2009, respectively;

and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB).

This undertaking is to safeguard the GPH-MILF ceasefire and support the ongoing peace process inherent to the IMT mandate.

4. Hitherto, the GPH CCCH and MILF CCCH shall ensure and warrant, and the IMT shall coordinate and monitor the unhindered movements and deployment of election personnel, equipment , paraphernalia, documents, voters, AFP I PNP election security personnel, as deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), to and from all the Polling Centers situated within the MILF dominated areas.

5. The deployment of the deputized AFP and PNP election security personnel shall start upon withdrawal of the Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) automated machines from the main hubs designated by the COMELEC to the municipalities then to the polling centers, Testing of PCOS automated machines, Election day on 13 May 2013 and until the recovery/pull-out of PCOS automated machines and other election paraphernalia after the holding of elections on 13 May 2013.

Upon completion of all election functions within the MILF dominated areas, the deputized AFP/PNP election security personnel deployed thereat shall pull out immediately.

6. The Joint Ceasefire Monitoring Post (JCMPs) [...] composed of personnel from the GPH CCCH, MILF CCCH and the Bantay Ceasefire of the Mindanao People's Caucus (MPC) with the IMT's assistance and the Local Monitoring Teams [...] shall be designated as the monitoring and quick response team (QRT) of the JCCCH and IMT for this endeavor.

Additional JCMPs could be set up in other areas when necessary.

7. The strength of the deputized PNP I AFP election security personnel to be deployed in the MILF dominated areas shall be coordinated so as not to create unnecessary alarm and apprehension to the MILF forces and civilian communities that might jeopardize the ceasefire and the peace process.

8. The main routes, water and land usually used by the MILF troops during movements and activities shall be left opened.

Provided, however that MILF movements are property coordinated earlier with the GPH CCCH and the existing ceasefire mechanisms.

9. The MILF shall refrain from consolidating its forces for any purpose/s including peace gatherings from the time the PCOS Machines are deployed until the Election has been completed except at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao,Camp Bushra in Lanao del Sur, and in the urban centers, when necessary.and in coordination with the GPH CCCH.

10. The MILF armed elements should not go near polling centers and precincts, avoid display of firearms and uniforms along routes leading to the areas where electoral activities are ongoing.

11. The GPH CCCH shall provide the MILF CCCH and IMT the official list of Polling Centers which are of interest for the implementation of these guidelines.

12. In case of any reported untoward incident, the deputized PNP/AFP election security personnel shall take appropriate action in coordination with the GPH CCCH, the MILF CCCH the GPH AHJAG, the MILF AHJAG and the IMT MB or vice versa as the case maybe.

13. The GPH-CCCH and the MILF-CCCH jointly shall find ways to provide assistance to the MILF members and families who are temporarily displaces as the guidelines are being implemented.

Moreover, the MILF through it CCCH shall provide necessary data/information on the affected MILF members and families.

To insure safety, the displaced MILF members and families shall be located to mutually agreed upon areas.

In case election paraphernalia are scheduled to be deployed, for this purpose, movement shall be done before the final testing, and sealing of PCOS machines, at least sever (7) days before the election (Note:

scheduled by COMELEC on 06 May 2013) and the delivery/distribution of election paraphernalia from the COMELEC-designated area to various polling precincts a day prior to the election (Note:

scheduled by COMELEC on 12 May 2013) until the completion of the Election and withdrawal of all paraphernalia, equipment, COMELEC Deputized security forces and Election Officials.

14. It is mutually agreed that security/personnel deployed within areas with presence of MILF be withdrawn immediately after the conduct of elections and withdrawal of PCOS automated machines and Election paraphernalia and personnel.

The Parties involved shall commit to these Guidelines of Mutual Understanding as agreed and signed on the 22nd day of April, 2013 at the Waterfront Insular Hotel, Davao City, Philippines.

For the GRP CCCH:

Bgen Cesar Dionisio T Sedillo Jr, AFP

Chairman

For the MILF CCCH:

Said Sheik, Al Haj

Chairman

Witness and conforme':

Mgen Dato' Fadzil Bin Mokhtar

Head Mission for the International Monitoring Team – M8