Binay presses Aquino to convene security council, assess order in PH

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Jejomar Binay called on President Benigno Aquino III to convene the National Security Council (NSC) to assess the national peace and security situation amid reports of renewed  clashes in Mindanao.

“In light of recent developments especially the reports of renewed clashes in Mindanao, I urge President Aquino to convene the National Security Council,” Binay said in a statement on Wednesday.

“The meeting will assess the current peace and order and security situation, and formulate the proper mechanisms that would prepare our law enforcement and the armed forces to respond accordingly,” he added.

It is important, he said, to be prepared for any eventuality in view of the escalating conflicts in Mindanao.

“We need to be prepared. We have to discuss not only what’s happening now but how to be ready for the future. We need to invite persons who possess knowledge and experience on matters pertaining to national security,” said the Vice President.

“The NSC meeting will provide our security forces the framework to act, keeping in mind that our ultimate goal is to ensure stability and pursue peace in Mindanao,” he further said.

The NSC is composed of the President, the Vice President, the Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff, the National Security Council director, the executive secretary, and the secretaries of foreign affairs, national defense, interior and local government, justice, and labor and employment.

Barely a month after the failed police raid in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, gunfire once again rattled the province after members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) clashed Saturday.

More than 15,000 residents of Kabasalan, Barongis, Buliok, Bago Inged, Bulol and Rajamuda in Pikit, North Cotabato, and Kalbugan and Buliok in Pagalungan, Maguindanao have reportedly fled their homes to escape the combat.

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