MILF rebels turn to extortion

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The military exposed the extortion activities conducted by the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front after its forces were discovered collecting monthly “protection fees” in two towns of Zamboanga del Norte, according to an official.

1Lt. Steffani Cacho, Western Mindanao Command spokesman said the MILF were targeting construction companies and businessmen operating the in the towns of Siocon and Sirawai and Sibuco where the separatists has its forces presence.

Cacho said the latest harassment was discovered when the MILF rebels seized and torched a dump truck owned by the Bendimil Construction at Barangay Jatian and instructed the driver regarding their monthly “protection fees.”

The incident occurred Monday but the military only learned about the attack after the company reported the incident and extortion activity. – Roel Pareño