Show sincerity to the peace process by ending clan wars, MILF asked

MANILA, Philippines - A senior military adviser of the government peace panel asked yesterday the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to show sincerity to the peace process by ending “ridos” or clan wars among its members.

In a statement sent through the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Process, Brig. Gen. Leo Cresente Ferrer said the MILF should discipline its troops and put an end to internal armed conflicts.

“We would like to see that sincerity reflected on the ground as well, by knowing that the MILF can control their troops from going into armed clashes again in the future,” Ferrer said.

“We will never stop urging the MILF to control their warring forces and help settle family disputes even before they can escalate to violence,” he added.

At least two rido clashes were reported in Barangay Damalibi in Sharif Aguak, Maguindanao, and Barangay Balabac in Pikit, North Cotabato last Thursday.

Ferrer said around 100 families fled their homes and were led to safety by the Army’s 1st Infantry Battalion and the 2nd IB of the Light Armor Division.

Ferrer said the negotiating panels have informed the Army unit and the ceasefire committee about the fighting.           

He said Army troops were also requested to establish checkpoints along the highway to deter encroachment of reinforcing troops from both sides.

 Ferrer said an MILF source told them that “initiatives to resolve the feud were done by the MILF but it was not sustained due to personal grudge and political connections.”

“The government wants a peace agreement with the MILF, but we also want to see them prove that they can work with us in keeping the peace,” he said.

The government and the MILF peace panels are set to meet for another round of formal exploratory talks this month in Kuala Lumpur.