GPH, MILF to intensify ties after fatal Basilan clash
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The Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will enhance their ties following the fatal clash between their forces in Sumisip, Basilan.
"The incident is a reminder for all parties, that respect, level-headedness, and empathy are essential in arriving at a solution that is just and principled for all," the GPH Peace Implementing Panel said in a statement released Thursday.
"To this end, the Parties, with our peace mechanisms endeavor to intensify our ground engagements, close coordination, and open dialogue to maintain the same degree of trust and confidence at the higher level, which we have carefully nurtured for years to bring just and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro," it added.
On January 22, two soldiers and two fighters were killed in the encounter when two armed groups, including alleged MILF members, attacked the 32nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army in Sumisip.
The soldiers were on their way to provide security for United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) personnel, who were on the field for a humanitarian project. UN Philippines Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez has condemned the "ambush."
MILF's Peace Implementing Panel chairperson Mohagher Iqbal had said the clash may have been caused by the lack of coordination between the two sides.
However, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. said coordination was done with the MILF. He also said the military does not need to seek permission from the MILF regarding the entry of its troops at the clash site.
The GPH said the clash was an "unfortunate incident amid positive strides in the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB)."
It added that such violence should not occur with a peace agreement in full effect.
Pending the results of the joint probe into the incident, the GPH called for sobriety and prudence from all concerned parties.
"We appeal to all individuals to refrain from issuing any statement that may cause misinterpretation and add tension to the incident," the GPH said.
The GPH also expressed condolences to the bereaved families of those who died in the incident. — VDV, GMA Integrated News