Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Mining claim by alleged MILF group irks mayor

From the Daily Zamboanga Times (Aug 5): Mining claim by alleged MILF group irks mayor

Mayor Beng Climaco issued a renewed appeal enjoining both government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to support and respect the ongoing peace process finalization.
 
“We appeal to all parties to please respect the ongoing finalization of the peace accord,” said the chief executive, who issued the appeal in the wake of reports of intrusion of some alleged MILF members in Barangay Baluno.
 
Reportedly, the alleged MILF members sought to obtain samples of mineral products in Baluno on July 31, stating that they were already given authority to mine in any part of Mindanao.
 
This claim, Climaco noted, was refuted by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Secretary Ging Deles when the City Government, through the City Legal Office, brought the matter to the attention of the OPAPP.
 
“This, according to her [Secretary Deles], is unacceptable and nowhere allowed nor authorized under the peace agreement. We will not tolerate such disturbances to the peace process, she added,” Climaco said, quoting Secretary Deles’ response which was sent via text message.
 
Climaco also relayed that the OPAPP Secretary confirmed that the GPH Committee on Cessation of Hostilities has already been directed to immediately look into the reported matter, and that MILF commands in the region have been asked to cease all activities that could jeopardize the peace process.
 
“As of latest, Secretary Deles informed me that she has raised the issue with the MILF counterpart in charge of Western Mindanao, Malik Karil, who in turn has coordinated and advised Bob Jumadil, the Chair Political Committee of the MILF in the City to stop all activities that could irritate city officials, and could adversely affect the ceasefire and the peace process,” said Climaco.
 
Meanwhile, OIC City Police Director Sr. Supt. Angelito Casimiro assured that continuous monitoring for potential intrusions in the City, as well as the validation of all incoming reports, are being conducted.
 
He added that police forces are also coordinating with the Task Force Zamboanga, specifically the MBLT 11, and the Division Reconnaissance Company, to maintain peace and security in the City.
 

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.