PNP removes MILF from list of threat groups for 2013 polls

From InterAksyon (Nov 13): PNP removes MILF from list of threat groups for 2013 polls

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has removed the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) from its list of threat groups for the 2013 elections, PNP director general Nicanor Bartolome said Tuesday. Bartolome said authorities are now considering the MILF as among their allies after the latter and Philippine government signed a framework peace agreement that will pave the way for the creation of a Bangsamoro entity in Mindanao. “We just have a signing on the Framework Agreement (FRAG) and so we consider them to be our allies in securing peaceful elections in Mindanao. We take it very positively if they will be our partners,” Bartolome told reporters. Based on recent PNP reports, Mindanao has the highest number of private armed groups and election hot spots. With the removal of the MILF from the list of threat groups, the PNP is now focusing on other groups such as the New People's Army, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement. The PNP is still finalizing its security measures for the 2013 elections....

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47919/pnp-removes-milf-from-list-of-threat-groups-for-2013-polls