Dropping raps vs 59 MNLF men part of surrender deal?

MANILA, Philippines - A Department of Justice (DOJ) recommendation to drop the rebellion charges against 59 members of the Moro National Liberation Front tagged in last year’s Zamboanga siege was reportedly part of a deal for the MNLF to surrender.

 A source said the government was merely honoring an agreement allegedly forged by the group of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas with the MNLF, headed by commander Ugong Uson.

“Before the group could land in Zamboanga City to join their Sulu-based colleagues, a senior police official, upon the approval of the DILG secretary, successfully negotiated for their surrender,” the source said.

He said Uson and his followers got an assurance from the police officer that the charges the government was readying against those involved in the siege would be dropped if they surrender.

The source said Uson’s group was apparently misled by their colleagues to join a peaceful parade organized by the MNLF in Zamboanga City.

“They were promised P10,000 each if they attend the parade. They later learned that they will be reinforcing the group of Habir Malik,” the source said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it respects the DOJ’s recommendation to drop the rebellion charges against the 59 MNLF rebels.

AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said this would not discourage the military from pushing efforts to achieve peace in Mindanao.

The DOJ said the involvement in the siege of 59 MNLF members was not established.