Mayor sets record on Bilal Philips issue

ZAMBOANGA CITY (ZNS) –On the Abu Ameena Bilal Philips issue, what is on record is that the venue where the activity that Mr. Philips was supposed to preside was not available on September 6 due to an ongoing Art Healing Workshop for 300 school children affected by the 2013 siege.

Because of the non-availability of the venue, the organizers informed the City Government that Mr. Philips was no longer proceeding to Zamboanga City.

Philips was arrested by police authorities in Davao City last Sunday (Sept. 7), on the eve of President Aquino’s visit to that city, on grounds that he could be considered a threat to national security noting a ban imposed on him in Australia, Bangladesh, Germany, Kenya, United Kingdom and the United States.

Philips is reportedly suspected of supporting terrorist groups.

Mayor Climaco expressed surprise why some sectors blame her for banning the entry of Philips in Zamboanga City. “He was apprehended in Davao and so what is the connection between Zamboanga and Davao?”

She said it is best to let the people judge the issue for themselves by taking a close look at the facts made available by the police and military. She pointed out that Zamboanga City has gone through a siege and that the residents would not want further incidents that would bring back the bitter memories of the past.

“They make it appear that it is only me who is the enemy, so be it, because I will do everything I can to protect the people of Zamboanga,” the mayor said in reaction to insinuations that she ordered Philip’s ban in Zamboanga City to the extent of burning her defaced picture in a tarpaulin in a rally by students in Marawi City last Wednesday.

“We will protect our people—Moslems, Christians and Lumads have suffered enough from the siege. Zamboanga City is our home and we are building it back better with God’s grace and people’s support.” (Sheila Covarrubias) (091514)