PRESIDENTIAL Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr. condemned the attack in Basilan on Wednesday, Jan. 22, that killed two soldiers and wounded 12 others.
“I strongly condemn the attack in Basilan on Wednesday, January 22, which tragically resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to twelve others,” Galvez said in a statement.
This cowardly act was perpetrated by lawless armed individuals who seek to derail the peace process that Basilan is beginning to enjoy.
The incident occurred while troops from the 32nd Infantry Battalion were providing security to United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) personnel engaged in a crucial peace and development project in Barangay Lower Cabengbeng, Sumisip, Basilan.
“My deepest sympathies go out to the families of the fallen soldiers, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of peace,” he said.
In coordination with the Provincial Local Government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine National Police, we are immediately deploying all relevant peace mechanisms, including the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities, the Joint Peace and Security Committee, the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group, and Joint Peace and Security Teams.
These measures aim to de-escalate tensions on the ground and facilitate a swift and impartial investigation to establish the facts and circumstances of the incident.
“We also call on the leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to conduct its own investigation and help bring the perpetrators to justice,” Galvez said.
“We reassure the people of Basilan of the government’s commitment to peace, justice, and security,” he added.
