Mayor: Respect

peace process

ZAMBOANGA CITY (ZNS) -City Mayor Beng Climaco issued a renewed appeal enjoining both government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) parties to support and respect the ongoing peace process finalization.

“We appeal to all parties to please respect the ongoing finalization of the peace accord,” said the chief executive, who issued the appeal in light of reports of intrusion of some alleged MILF members in barangay Baluno.

Accordingly, these alleged MILF members sought to obtain samples of mineral products in Baluno on July 31, stating that they were already given authority to mine in any part of Mindanao.

Mayor Beng Climaco answers questions fielded by media people during her weekly press briefing Monday. Joining the mayor as resource persons City Health Officer Rodel Agbulos, Acting City Police Director Col. Angelito Casimiro and Public Safety Company Commander Maj. Ariel Huesca. JOEY BAUTISTA 

This claim, Climaco noted, was refuted by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Secretary Teresita Deles when the City Government, through the City Legal Office, brought the said incident to the attention of the OPAPP.

“This, according to her [Secretary Deles], is unacceptable and nowhere allowed nor authorized under the peace agreement. We will not tolerate such disturbances to the peace process, she added,” Climaco said, quoting Secretary Deles’ response which was sent via text message.

Climaco also relayed that the OPAPP Secretary confirmed that the GPH Committee on Cessation of Hostilities has already been directed to immediately look into the reported matter, and that MILF commands in the region have been asked to cease all activities that could jeopardize the peace process.

“As of latest, Secretary Deles informed me that she has raised the issue with the MILF counterpart in charge of Western Mindanao, Malik Karil, who in turn has coordinated and advised Bob Jumadil, the Chair Political Committee of the MILF in the City to stop all activities that could irritate city officials, and could adversely affect the ceasefire and the peace process,” said Climaco.

Meanwhile, Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) OIC Col. Angelito Casimiro assured that continuous monitoring for potential intrusions in the City, as well as the validation of all incoming reports, are being conducted.

He added that police forces are also coordinating with the Task Force Zamboanga, specifically the MBLT 11, and the Division Reconnaissance Company, to maintain peace and security in the City. (Jasmine Mohammadsali) (080814)