MANILA, Philippines - Photos of alleged Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) recruitment and training activities in Sulu were revealed during the Senate hearing on the Mamasapano incident on Tuesday.
Sen. Grace Poe presented photos dated Jan. 1, 2015 showing the alleged training activities of the MILF in Barangay Punay in Panglima Estino, Sulu. The photos were sent by a local government official in Sulu, relayed by concerned citizens of the province.
The letter enclosed with the photos stated that the MILF opened a camp for basic training of the Bangsamoro National Guard. The said training is a pre-requisite to becoming a bona fide member of the MILF.
"These recent developments have raised fears among ordinary citizens in the Province, instead of hope, after the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro," the letter said.
The photos showed that high-powered firearms were being used in the training camp.
The letter added that the MILF training camp in Sulu was not an isolated case as the group is also reportedly recruiting members in Zamboanga del Sur.
When asked about the said photos, MILF chief peace negotiator Mohagher Iqbal said he cannot confirm the alleged training activity.
"I've asked people on the ground to validate. This is something we will need to respond to," Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles added.