Moro groups want probe on Basilan, Zambo Sibugay clashes

KIDAPAWAN CITY – A consortium of Moro human rights groups in Mindanao is calling for an impartial investigation on the facts and circumstances surrounding the recent atrocities blamed on the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The group — the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS) — particularly wants the incidents in Al-Barka town in Basilan and Alicia town in Zamboanga Sibugay investigated. Over 20 government troops were killed in the two attacks, which occurred despite a ceasefire agreement, prompting widespread calls for the government to withdraw from the peace talks with the MILF and instead declare an all-out war. “These incidents resulted to several deaths of men in uniform," said the CBCS, a network of Moro-led non-government organizations, in a statement. “We want to determine what caused the killing and punish those responsible for it." The group said among those that should initiate the investigation are the Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities from the government and the MILF, and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG). The military is currently conducting its own investigation on the Basilan incident to determine if lapses were committed by the operating troops. The MILF has accused the military of violating the ceasefire agreement when the soldiers encroached on their Area of Temporary Stay. The ATS is a place designated by the government and the MILF CCCH where forces of the rebel group can stay to prevent encounters with troops pursuing members of the Abu Sayyaf group. The House of Representatives and the Senate are also set to investigate the clash. Unfortunate incidents CBCS chairman Guiamel Alim said they are deeply saddened by these “unfortunate" incidents, which happened at a time the government and the MILF are negotiating for a peace agreement. “We sincerely condole and share the bereavement of the families of those who died in these incidents as we sympathize with the displaced residents of the affected areas. These incidents could have been avoided if only the parties consciously adhered to the agreed peace mechanisms established by the peace process," said Alim. Amidst the mounting sentiment to wage war in Mindanao, the consortium has implored the media for responsible and prudent reporting of events and avoids sensationalism. Some reports, according to Alim, could only inflame deep-seated biases and historical prejudices against Muslims in southern Philippines. The group said they are in full support of the move of President Aquino not to wage an all-out war in Mindanao. The group has also urged both panels to immediately return to the negotiating table “so they could hammer out the gaps in the peace talks" because according to Alim, “In war, there are no victors, only victims." - Malu Cadelina Manar/KBK, GMA News