Government, MILF agree to probe clash

The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front have agreed to continue investigating the clash in Al-Barka, Basilan, last month that resulted in the deaths of 19 soldiers and 6 Moro rebels, the chairman of the government panel said Thursday night.

The clash happened despite an existing ceasefire agreement between the two sides.

The government panel and the MILF held informal talks in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday.

In a statement, Marvic Leonen, the head of the government peace panel negotiating with the Moro group, said the MILF committed to cooperate with the government in going after criminals and “lost commands.”

However, there was no specific reference to MILF commander Dan Asnawi, one of the so-called lawless elements that President Aquino had said was being hunted down by law enforcers.

Asnawi was reportedly also one of those who figured in the Al-Barka clash on October 18.

“Regarding the recent incidents, most particularly in Al-Barka, Basilan, we agreed that investigations through the cease-fire mechanisms shall continue to be conducted,” said Leonen.

He said the investigations would include those to be done by the International Monitoring Team in coordination with the Joint Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (Ahjag).

“We will await recommendations relating to the review of ceasefire mechanisms that may result from these investigations,” Leonen said.

Leonen said the MILF renewed its commitment to help in the government’s campaign against lawless elements.

“Further, the MILF reaffirmed that it will cooperate with government with respect to its efforts to interdict kidnap-for-ransom groups, criminal syndicates, and ‘lost commands’ pursuant to the Joint Communique and Implementing Guidelines of the Ahjag,” Leonen said.