By Jinky Lou Tabor
Based on information from 74th Infantry Battalion head Lieutenant Colonel Jonas Templo, a radio journalist has earlier reported that an improvised explosive device was set off at a checkpoint in Lamitan City, Basilan.
ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman (MANILA BULLETIN)
According to AFP Spokesperson Col. Edgardo Arevalo, 11 were killed in the said blast - 5 members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU), 4 civilians identified as CAFGU dependents, and 1 soldier.
"We condemn this brazen act of violence against our people, and trust that we will exert every effort to help the families affected by this incident and we will strengthen efforts to secure our region without compromising the rights of the Bangsamoro," Hataman stated.
"We mourn the loss of lives in this senseless attack to our safety, and we continue to thank those who have devoted and continue to devote their lives to securing peace in the Bangsamoro. The commitment to rights and safety of our people that we share with them defines our collective efforts, and we continue to stand and work with them as we seek justice for those who have lost their lives to conflict and violence."
"We would also like to appeal to prudence and restraint among the media and the public, as investigations are currently ongoing. Let us stick to the facts and not forego our responsibility to the truth, especially when rumors and unfounded claims may lead to fearmongering and may further fuel instability at a time when we are working hard to win the peace and pursue justice," he added.
ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman (MANILA BULLETIN)
According to AFP Spokesperson Col. Edgardo Arevalo, 11 were killed in the said blast - 5 members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU), 4 civilians identified as CAFGU dependents, and 1 soldier.
"We condemn this brazen act of violence against our people, and trust that we will exert every effort to help the families affected by this incident and we will strengthen efforts to secure our region without compromising the rights of the Bangsamoro," Hataman stated.
"We mourn the loss of lives in this senseless attack to our safety, and we continue to thank those who have devoted and continue to devote their lives to securing peace in the Bangsamoro. The commitment to rights and safety of our people that we share with them defines our collective efforts, and we continue to stand and work with them as we seek justice for those who have lost their lives to conflict and violence."
"We would also like to appeal to prudence and restraint among the media and the public, as investigations are currently ongoing. Let us stick to the facts and not forego our responsibility to the truth, especially when rumors and unfounded claims may lead to fearmongering and may further fuel instability at a time when we are working hard to win the peace and pursue justice," he added.