AFP vows justice to Mangyan leader

The military has vowed to give justice to a Mangyan community leader who was taken from his home and killed by suspected communist rebels in Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro, last Friday.

Ariston Mameng was instrumental in bringing development projects to the Hanunuo tribe, the Armed Forces said.

“We condemn the murder of this leader who was a partner in the peace and development undertakings of the Armed Forces partner agencies and organizations,” said AFP spokesperson Colonel Arnulfo Burgos Jr.

“He is a big loss. He serves as a key communicator of the village. Ariston Mameng only thought of what would improve the lives of the Mangyan,” Burgos added.

Troops from the 4th Infantry Battalion based in Mansalay, Oriental Mindanao, are providing support to the investigation into Mameng’s July 20 murder.

AFP deputy spokesperson Major Emmanuel Garcia said Mameng was a tireless organizer who went to various agencies for help in implementing his ideas for development projects.