Foreign observers’ comparison of Mindanao with Afghanistan uncalled for

Foreign observers’ comparison of Mindanao with Afghanistan uncalled for — Bunye

Published: May 17, 2007 | |

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MANILA — Press Secretary Ignacio R. Bunye lamented today as “uncalled for” the statement of foreign observers of last Monday’s midterm elections comparing Mindanao with the situation in war-wracked Afghanistan.

In a statement, Bunye said that the foreign observers, who have stayed in the country for only a few days, have a lot to learn about Philippine culture, heritage and politics.

“While we welcome foreign observers, we also must recognize their limited exposure to national and local politics in the Philippines,” he added.

The Malaca�ang official was reacting to media reports quoting the foreign observers from the Asia Network of Free Elections (ANFREL) that vote-buying and other irregularities marred the election in Mindanao.

Bunye noted that Filipinos — “knowing that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are there to help them” – actually felt “free to choose who to vote for, and are able to move around with great ease.” (OPS)

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