AFP calls for national unity

MANILA, Philippines – Amid circulating reports on the rivalry between the military and police due to the Mamasapano incident, the Armed Forces of the Philippines appealed for the support of the uniformed service.

“We call on our people to unite and stand behind our uniformed personnel, particularly our soldiers and policemen, amid the issues that arise from the Mamasapano encounter,” AFP Public Affairs Office chief Lieutenant Colonel Harold Cabunoc said in a statement Wednesday.

Members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force launched a law enforcement operation for two known terrorists, Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan and Basit Usman in Maguindanao last January 25. Marwan was killed in the anti-terror raid but Usman escaped.

Because of lack of coordination with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, which the government has a ceasefire agreement, the SAF commandos got embroiled in a fierce battle with MILF and members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, leaving 44 counterterrorism troopers dead.

The military was not informed of the operation, leading to delayed reinforcements.

“Let us remember the heroism, bravery, and sacrifices of our policemen and soldiers, who stand ready to lay down their lives to protect our communities, our families and friends, and our way of life,” Cabunoc said.

“It is during these tumultuous times that our security forces need your support, like you have supported us in our past losses in the line of our duties,” he added.

Cabunoc acknowledged the support of the troops, particularly when they suffered casualties in their operations in recent times including the Al Barka incident in 2011 where they lost 19 soldiers; the encounter in Patikul, Sulu in 2013 where they lost seven Marines; and Zamboanga City siege in 2013 where 20 soldiers and five policemen lost their lives while defending the city against MNLF-Misuari faction members.

“Let us stand as one nation to support our security forces and avoid the calls for divisiveness. We call on our people to exercise sobriety and be objective and discerning in our quest to know the truth and pursue justice,” Cabunoc said.