DILG chief ensures peace, order in ARMM

DILG Sec. Manuel ‘Mar’ Roxas (PNA Photo)

MANILA — Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II on Wednesday expressed his “unwavering commitment” to ensure that the citizens of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) remain safe from any acts of terror and criminality by the Abu Sayyaff Group (ASG).

“What happened in Basilan was unfortunate. And we wouldn’t want civilian casualties in this kind of attack by the Abu Sayaff,” Roxas said in a statement.

The DILG Chief was referring to the ambush by Abu Sayyaf bandits under the command of Radzmi Jannatul, which claimed the lives of six soldiers patrolling Sitio Mompol, Barangay Libug in Sumisip, Basilan on Sunday.

In earlier reports, ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman was outraged by such “cowardly act” of the ASG and has recommended an “all-out offensive” against all terrorist groups, including the Abu Sayyaff.

“The DILG and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are not turning a blind eye on ARMM. In December, we are expecting PNP regional and provincial officers to retire and we will coordinate with Gov. Hataman to ensure that the new leadership will be efficient and effective in deterring criminal activities,” Roxas said.

For months now, Roxas has taken the helm of various reforms in the national police force, including the campaign against criminality by introducing a specific, programmatic and deliberate approach in policing.

Also known as specific, measurable, attainable, replicable and time-bound (SMART) policing, the PNP’s new approach harnesses information communication technology and data analytics in crime-fighting efforts that can deliver clear and long-term results.

The pilot was able to yield highly promising results in the National Capital Region (NCR) and is expected to see full implementation in all regions soon.