No: 38, 30 January 2015

We are concerned about the clash between the Philippine National Police and the forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Mamasapano town, Maguindanao Province of the Philippines. We regret the loss of lives in the clash and convey our condolences to the families and relatives of the deceased.

We attach great importance to the resolute continuation of the Southern Philippines Peace Process, constituting a model for peace and cooperation in the region. We hope that this regrettable incident will not damage the process and the cooperation between the parties.