Drilon challenges MILF to surrender BIFF leader

MANILA, Philippines - Senate President Franklin Drilon on Wednesday challenged the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Wednesday to surrender Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) commander Basit Usman to prove their sincerity to the government's peace program.

 

Surrendering Usman and the others who are involved in the bloody encounter last Sunday in Maguindanao would show that the MILF is one with the government n achieving genuine and lasting peace.

 

"The January 25 police operation was a chance to finally arrest Usman and Zulkipli 'Marwan' bin Hir, but our policemen had been foiled, and lost their lives in a tragic and deadly event," Drilon said.

 

Drilon reiterated that the MILF is a partner of the government in its peace initiative and that they should assist the government in arresting the likes of Usman.

 

The Senate President added that the bloody encounter, which killed 44 police commandos, should not discourage Filipinos in aspiring and working for peace in Mindanao.

 

"Peace is never easy. Let us not give up," Drilon stressed.

 

Drilon emphasized that the government should apply full force in bringing justice for the families of the slain policemen.

 

Meanwhile, senators Alan Peter Cayetano and JV Ejercito have withdrawn their co-authorship from the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

 

The Palace earlier reminded the said senators to consider the consequences of not pursuing the peace process.

 

The MILF, on the other hand, called for the passage of the BBL as any hesitations would result to more "complication."

 

RELATED: Palace to ex-BBL supporters: Think of long-term peace in Mindanao | MILF: Pass Bangsamoro law or face complications