In Bohol Probe sought over Sayyaf incursion

CEBU, Philippines -  A member of the Provincial Board in Bohol is ranting about his colleague’s failure to tackle his proposal to pass a resolution calling for a congressional investigation into the Abu Sayyaf incursion in the province.

Board Member Dionisio Victor Balite said he was disappointed with Board Member Ricky Masamayor after the latter put his request on the sidelines.

Masamayor’s committee on peace and order met last week but did not discuss his concern. Balite said Masamayor instead focus on other matters, including a letter of the habal-habal driver who complained that he only received P450,000 reward for the death of Joselito Melloria, bandit’s local contact in Bohol.

Balite said Masamayor promised him to discuss his concern in their next committee meeting.

Balite moved during a privilege speech for the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) to pass a resolution urging Congress “to conduct an investigation in aid of legislation on the Abu Sayyaf invasion in the province of Bohol.”

His proposal was referred to the committee of Masamayor.

Balite wanted an investigation to find out how did the Abu Sayyaf bandits were able to penetrate the province.

“I have no capacity to conclude and clear the clouds of doubts that have been lingering in my mind as regards to the Abu Sayyaf invasion to our province. As I tried to make things clear, the more they became blurred,” Balite said.

He said that Bohol is known for its tourism and not being a terrorism destination.

At least a dozen members of Abu Sayyaf arrived in Bohol last month. They were led by Muammar Askali alias Abu Rami.

Abu Rami and all of his companions, including their local contact, were killed by the government troops after several encounters. — /FPL (FREEMAN)