Monday, August 25, 2008

Government Awarded 5 M each for the MILF

MalacaƱang announced last Tuesday a 5 million peso reward each for the arrest of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) commanders who allegedly instigated recent deadly attacks in North Cotabato, Lanao del Norte and other areas in southern Philippines.
Security officials, led by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno, announced that charges are being filed by police against Commander Ameril Umbra Kato, head of the MILF 105th Base Command leader, and Commander Bravo, head of the MILF's 102nd Base Command in Lanao del Norte.
Bravo is regarded as a star among the fighters of the MILF. The MILF's 102nd Base command in Lanao del Norte claims a a force of between 7,000 to 10,000 men.
The charge sheet may list down the crimes of murder, arson, robbery, illegal detention and maybe even kidnapping. They will be charged based on every victim.
However, the Palace stopped short of branding the MILF as terrorists as suggested by some sectors.
Puno explained branding them as terrorists would have legal implications government doesn’t need now. What's important, he said, is that they get them to court first.
Palace officials also said that what's happening now is outside the peace process, and that those who conducted the attacks are being treated by government as common criminals.

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