2 Lanao towns form peace forces

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Two towns in Lanao del Norte have formed task forces to maintain peace and order in their respective localities. Mayors Beltran Lumaque of Kolam—bugan and Dante Batinggolo of Tang—cal want to transform their municipalities into "peace zones," according to provincial information officer Richelieu Umel.

Batinggolo, a former leader of the Moro National Liberation Front (MILF), personally led his constituents in repulsing an attack by Moro rebels recently.

Lumaque and Batinggolo sealed their commitment with a pledge in front of Lanao del Norte Gov. Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo, who earlier had urged municipal officials to initiate inter-faith dialogues to resolve issues having an impact on the province’s peace and order situation.

Meanwhile, the Army’s 4th Infantry Division reported that MILF rebels clashed with Scout Rangers in Barangay Liningding in Munai town last Thursday.

The Scout Rangers were conducting clearing operations in the village when they encountered at least 30 fully armed Moro rebels, triggering a 30-minute firefight. — Bong Fabe