From MindaNews (Oct 6): Intl. NGOs urged to avoid BIFF areas due to kidnap threats

International non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and embassies with employees operating in conflict-affected areas in Cotabato and Maguindanao have been asked to avoid these areas in the meantime following “persistent reports” that members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) plan to “abduct foreign nationals including workers of various INGOs.” In a letter dated October 3 and addressed to “colleagues in the peace process,” Brig. Gen. Gilberto Jose Roa, chair of the government’s Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), cited “persistent reports” from the 6^thInfantry Division that the BIFF is “planning to sabotage the ongoing peace negotiations” between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation (MILF).... Part of the BIFF’s plan, the 6^th ID report said, is “to abduct foreign nationals including workers of various INGOs undertaking field visits and other humanitarian activities in some areas of Maguindanao and Cotabato provinces affected by the presence of the BIFF....”

http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2012/10/06/intl-ngos-urged-to-avoid-biff-areas-due-to-kidnap-threats/