MANILA, Feb. 2 -- Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. on Friday called on all Filipinos to shun any calls that would destabilize and divide the country, stressing that a united nation is vital in achieving development.

"When we, as Filipinos, are united, there is peace, development and prosperity. But when we, as a people, are divided, there is instability, underdevelopment and disorder," Galvez said in a statement.

The government's top peace adviser said calls for the separation of Mindanao from the Philippines are "an anathema to the letter and spirit of the Philippine Constitution", which serves as the foundation of the country's identity.

Galvez also said the m...