Maguindanao-based AFP units talked peace with local BIAF commanders

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 19, 2019): Maguindanao-based AFP units talked peace with local BIAF commanders

A peace dialogue was initiated by the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 6th Civil Military Operation Battalion with Datu Item Ampatuan, 106th Base Commander of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Maguindanao on Sunday.

The peace dialogue which took place at old Madrasah, Brgy. Dimampao, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao, was held after rumors came out that the military will attack the MILF community in the area that resulted on massive evacuations.
After learning about it, Army 6th Infantry Division (6th ID) Commander Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana immediately instructed Lt. Col. Alvin Iyog, the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 6th CMO Battalion through Major Aslim Ulangkaya to talk with the MILF ground commanders, local community and the religious leaders.

Major Jimmy Amoloy, Executive Officer of 2nd Mechanized Battalion and Major Ulangkaya engaged Datu Item Ampatuan to dispel the fear of the community. The effort was met with positive response.

“We have similar objectives, which is the peace and progress for our people,” said the emissaries of Major General Sobejana.

The community also agreed to the establishment of military patrol base in the area as part of the community deterrence against any threat groups.

“We have a good package, one that we believe will create wide optimism, a prelude to Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” said Commander Ampatuan.

Sobejana also expressed his gratitude to the community of Datu Abdullah Sangki town for their cooperation to end the dialogue with a positive result.

“In war, we cannot get enough, but in talking, we can get more than we expect”, and “we are here in full support and cooperation with all your noble intentions and undertakings”, Sobejana.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/02/19/maguindanao-based-afp-units-talked-peace-with-local-biaf-commanders/