Government airs 'serious concern' over split in MILF leadership

MANILA, Philippines -  The chief government negotiator yesterday expressed concern about reported factions in the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leadership, and wanted a clarification from the separatist group before both parties begin negotiations on Feb. 9-10. 

“The government panel views the reported resignation of a known commander of the MILF with serious concern, and looks forward to a clarification from the MILF panel during the meeting of the parties,” UP law professor Marvic Leonen said.  

Leonen though would not want to make any categorical statement yet.

“Until that time, we are careful not to take any public position on this issue that may unduly complicate the current situation. Suffice it to say, we are negotiating a comprehensive political settlement within the soonest possible time,” he said.

“Implied in this desire is the understanding that both parties can deliver a just and lasting peace,” he added. 

The MILF earlier hinted that the peace talks may suffer a setback, following the decision of 70-year-old Ameril Ombra Kato – who was a key figure in the August 2008 memorandum on agreement on ancestral domain that the Supreme Court declared unconstitutional – to bolt the front, along with 1,000 followers. 

MILF leader Al-Haj Murad confirmed Kato’s breaking away, saying though that this poses no threat to their organization.

Murad said Kato’s move is an offshoot of the rift between him and MILF leaders. Kato has been vocal about his all-out war plan against the government as he continued to insist on the ancestral domain agreement and opposed the political package the government is offering the MILF.

For its part, the military said is ready for the possible impact of the departure from the MILF of Kato, who led violent attacks in various parts of Mindanao after the botched signing of the ancestral domain agreement in 2008.  

Armed Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr. said security forces are continuously running after Kato, who is facing criminal charges for the attacks.

“He has pending cases in court. We are in the position to implement such orders. We’ve been running after him because we have to serve the court order,” Mabanta told The STAR.

Mabanta said they have not received reports on the possible escalation of violence due to Kato’s rift with the MILF.  

“There is none (threats of possible violence) but we are ready. We are ready for any repercussion of this development,” he said.

Mabanta said Marines and soldiers of the Army’s 1st and 6th Infantry Divisions will continue to provide security in the areas previously attacked by Kato.

He, however, maintained that the military remains supportive of the peace talks with the MILF. “The development would not change our view. We remain committed to achieve lasting peace,” he said. – With Alexis Romero