Sunday, May 04, 2003
12 MILF members yield in Lanao Sur

TWELVE alleged members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) surrendered to the authorities in Lanao del Sur last April 30.

The MILF leadership, however, denied the returnees were MILF regulars saying the so-called ceremony was a moro-moro and that they were actually henchmen of a local politician and not rebels.

Maj. Gen. Cristolito Balaoing, of the 4th Infantry Division, said the rebels surrendered around 3 p.m. before military, police and civilian authorities in Kalanugas, Lanao del Sur.

The rebels reportedly belonged to the 302nd Brigade of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) under one Mama Sangkupan alias Kumander Barman.

The rebels, who brought with them their high-powered firearms, surrendered to Major Francis Palabat of the 67th Infantry Battalion based in Lanao sel Sur.

Balaoing said the rebels will be given P16-18,000 for each of their firearms aside from the P15,000 they will receive for their livelihood fund.

Local officials also attended the ceremony led by one Mayor Macapado Benito.

MILF spokesman Eid Kabalu, however, said the so-called MILF rebel returnees were actually men of a local official.

He said the affair was organized by the politician to improve his image in their area. He did not name the said official. BOT