The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) assured the public that the recent deadly clash in Sumisip, Basilan has not derailed the ongoing peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla confirmed during a press briefing that the incident, which resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and two lawless elements on January 22, is under investigation.
“This entire peace process has not been hampered by this incident. What we want to focus on is resolving the issue that arose unexpectedly,” Padilla stated.
Commitment to Peace
Padilla emphasized that the normalization program, part of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, remains intact. The program seeks to transform former MILF combatants into productive civilians and develop their communities into resilient and progressive areas.
“We are continuing to build on the gains we’ve achieved in this peace process,” Padilla said, echoing AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr.’s call to “give peace a chance.”
Cause of the Clash
The encounter occurred when two armed groups, including alleged MILF members, attacked the 32nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. MILF Peace Implementing Panel Chairperson Mohagher Iqbal attributed the clash to a lack of coordination between the two sides. However, General Brawner maintained that proper coordination had been done.
An Isolated Incident
Padilla described the clash as an isolated event, noting that such incidents have been rare in recent years. “For so many years, there have been no such incidents. No major events like this have been recorded. Our hope is that this will not be repeated, with both parties adhering to the provisions of the normalization process,” she said.
The AFP reiterated its commitment to ensuring the success of the peace agreement and preventing future clashes as it works with the MILF toward lasting peace in the region.