AFP not tolerating armed civilians

CEBU - The Armed Forces of the Philippines said it will not tolerate untrained civilians bearing arms and posing as protectors of their communities.

The arming and showing to the public of the Ilaga Movement in Mindanao, among others, is unlawful, said Army spokesman Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner Jr. during a press conference at the Central Command headquarters yesterday.

The group’s resurrection will only further escalate tension in Mindanao, he said.

The military also vowed to work doubly hard to protect the people and the sovereignty of the republic.

In Central and Southern Mindanao, troops are pursuing groups of the Moro Islamic and Liberation Front led by Commander Bravo, Commander Umbra Kato, and Commander Pangalian.

However, military operations in the area have been adjusted in respect to the observance of Ramadan by Muslims.

The AFP also said they are assisting other government agencies as well as non-governmental organizations in delivering relief goods and basic services to displaced families in the area.

The AFP also has contingency plans to contain any threats that may arise in the country because of the realignment of AFP troops.

CentCom commander Lt. Gen. Pedro “Ike” Inserto denied reports that their special forces assigned in Bohol are begging for money from civilians.

“I don’t think these people will beg for money. They are highly-trained special forces…so that issue is really not true,” Inserto said.

Meanwhile, a three-day seminar will be conducted for all Public Information Officers and Civil Military Officers in Visayas after the first seminar in Mindanao.

“We are at your service, kaming mga spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Brawner said. — Niña Chrismae G. Sumacot/BRP (THE FREEMAN)