The Maguindanao massacre last month in which 57 persons were killed is proof that the conflict in Mindanao is not military but political in nature, retired police general and senatorial candidate Romeo Maganto said Monday.

Maganto said until a leader emerges from the ranks of the poor, who understands the sentiments of the underserved and has the heart for justice, service, and progress, the entire country will continue to rot in perdition.

Maganto, a former patrolman who rose from the ranks in the Philippine National Police through his commitment, gallantry, and dedication to duties, said in a press briefing, that he is committed to bringing peace and justice to the country if given the chance to serve his countrymen.

“The country has enough laws, in fact we have so much laws but the problem is we do not know how to implement those laws,” Maganto said.

Maganto, also known as “Leon ng Maynila” (Lion of Manila) during his days, said it will be his resolve once elected to strengthen laws passed in Congress since he believes that only through this way that peace and order will be restored.