RP Moslems call for representation

RP Moslems call for representation

MANILA (DPA): The largest southern Philippine rebel group
urged Vice President Joseph Estrada yesterday to appoint a Moslem
to his cabinet and avoid the mistake of past presidents who
excluded an Islamic representative.

"This time, Mindanao should not be left out," said a letter
from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and three other
Islamic groups, referring to the troubled southern island.

Estrada, a former movie actor who recently was elected
president, has yet to complete his cabinet. Those he has named so
far include businessmen with solid reputations, academics and
professionals, but no Moslems.

Former ambassador Alunan Glang plus the Moslem Reform Party,
the Islamic Missionary Movement and the Confederation of Major
Moslem Organizations of the Philippines urged Estrada to heed the
clamor of Moslem leaders.