Duterte, Reds agree on framework for peace talks

MANILA – Incoming president Rodrigo Duterte revealed that he has reached an agreement with National Democratic Front (NDF) Secretariat head Fidel Agcaoili on the framework for the peace talks between the two sides.

In a press conference held in Davao City early Thursday morning, Duterte said that he and Agcaoili talked for three hours on Wednesday to discuss the planned peace talks between the government and the communist rebel group.

"Fidel Agcaoili was here last night. We talked for about three hours. We agreed on the framework of how to proceed with the peace talks," Duterte saud.

Dutere said he told Agcaoili that he is looking forward to the time when the government and the Left can work together.

"Maybe, in God's good time, I told Fidel that merong panahon na darating sa atin that we'll have to stop talking about being Left or being Right," Duterte remarked.

The incoming president also announced that Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder and current NDF chief political consultant Joma Sison will return from exile when Duterte assumes the presidency.

"Joma is coming home," Duterte told reporters. "I (told him) I cannot give you the invitation now because I am not the president. And I cannot guarantee anything about the safety pass."

"Maybe you can wait until the 30th of June, I will, by that time, I said, presidente ako, I can give you the letter to come over," he added.

(READ: Why Joma Sison backs critical Left 'honeymoon' with Duterte)

LEFT IN THE CABINET

Duterte also admitted that he was impressed with the Left's nominees to the Cabinet.

The incoming president earlier said that he will be giving four Cabinet positions to members of the Left.

(READ: Duterte offers Cabinet posts to Communist Party)

"Look, the Left gave me a very impressive list of people who have the talent," he said.

But Duterte conceded that he is uncertain if these nominees are willing accept the new tasks.

"I really do not know if they are willing to," Duterte said.

DISCUSSION WITH MNLF

Meanwhile, Duterte clarified reports that he snubbed the contingent of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Nur Misuari.

"Sabi kasi ng MNLF, inisnab sila. I am very sorry to say na hindi namin ginawa 'yun," Duterte explained.

He said he will fly to Jolo to talk to Misuari personally.

"I was there for 21 hours during the first day. I will fly to Jolo and talk to Nur," he said.

Duterte maintained that he was not informed that Misuari and companions were in Davao to see him.