Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim has called for calm after the deadly clash in Basilan between soldiers and armed groups, including one affiliated with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
In a statement, Ebrahim said the Bangsamoro government was “deeply saddened” by the clash while the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao celebrated its 6th foundation anniversary.
“This incident is particularly disheartening as it transpired during the weeklong celebration of the 6th Foundation Anniversary of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), a period that symbolizes unity, peace, and progress in our region,” Ebrahim said.
“We urge all parties to remain calm as we work towards addressing this incident through appropriate channels,” he added.
Ebrahim said “established mechanisms within the peace process” were the best platforms for resolution, and that they remain committed to the full implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) and all its provisions, including those outlined in the Annex on Normalization.
“These mechanisms have been instrumental in maintaining peace and stability and ensuring accountability on all sides… This commitment is the foundation of our shared aspiration for genuine and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro region,” they said.
The encounter occurred in Sumisip, Basilan while the 32nd Infantry Battalion was attacked by two armed groups while providing security for United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) personnel, who were conducting a peace and development project.
The encounter led to two soldiers dead and 12 others injured.
Two armed men were also reportedly killed in the encounter.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. called on the BARMM government to start a probe into the clash and assured BARMM residents that they are working on keeping peace in the region.
“We also call on the leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to conduct its investigation and help bring the perpetrators to justice,” Galvez said in a statement. –NB, GMA Integrated News
