Zambo gov’t accuses MILF of violating peace pact

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has been accused by the Zamboanga City government of violating a peace agreement. The accusation came after after members of the MILF allegedly carried out an illegal mining activity in a village in the province.

“This is a clear violation of the peace agreement,” Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said, in reference to the reported illegal mining activity by MILF members, led by someone known as Bob Jumadil.

The activity took place in Barangay Baluno on July 31. According to Salazar, the MILF sought to obtain samples of the village’s mineral products as they claim to have been given the authority to mine in any part of Mindanao.

Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Deles, who was informed by Salazar of the situation, said via text to the latter that the movement was illegal under the peace agreement.

According to Salazar, Deles called the MILF’s move “unacceptable and nowhere allowed or authorized under the peace agreement.” Deles also reportedly directed the government’s Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostility (CCCH) to investigate the complaint, and the Armed Forces to take appropriate action.

Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro, acting city police director, said that the activities of 40-50 unarmed MILF members were being monitored at another village on the border of Barangay Tagasilay.

Casimiro said that the MILF under surveillance claimed they were in the area for the baptismal rites of a son of one of their members.