No word on release of MILF's POWs -- ICRC
By BUTCH D. ENERIO
TODAY Correspondent
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is waiting for a word from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for the release of the seven prisoners of war (POWs) captured by Moro rebels three weeks ago in Balo-i, Lanao del Norte.
ICRC team leader Jean Jacques Putallaz said Monday that once they receive the go signal from the MILF, the ICRC will not hesitate to receive them.
“We’re waiting for their [MILF] call. They called us last week and informed us that they would release the prisoners, but nothing was concrete yet,” he said.“If we are called, we will do it [receive the captured persons], provided security for us [the ICRC people] and everybody concerned is assured.” Putallaz said in a telephone interview.
The MILF promised to release the POWs within the month.
Eid Kabalu, MILF spokesman, said the Front has already scheduled the release of the POWs last week, but it did not push through because of politicians who “have vested interests” and want to earn “pogi points [credits]” in the release of the prisoners.
He said that besides the “saling-pusa” who wanted to be recognized and earn credit for the release of the POWs, “there is no obstacle in [releasing the captives].”
“Elections are nearing that is why the politicians wanted to grab the credits,” Kabalu said in Filipino.
The Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces’ 501st Brigade under Aldurahman Macapaar alias Commander Bravo, captured M/Sgt. G. Ompoy and Sgt. Rizaldy Oniana of the Army’s 58th Infantry Battalion and militiamen Angelito Reyes, Antonio Paquelero, Carlito Cabilao, Juanito Wagas and Canete Marcelino on March 6 in Balo-i, Lanao del Norte.
They are being held in the 501st Brigade’s lair in the boundary of Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte, Bravo’s brother-in-law, Abu Nashiva, said.
Recently, Mohamad al-Haj Murad, MILF deputy chairman for military affairs, said in a statement that the “seven prisoners of war are going to be released soon to the ICRC” without giving the details and specific date.
Murad said the MILF had no intention of keeping the POWs.
“We know how nerve-shattering and traumatic it is to be in the hands of your adversary even if you are treated well,” he added.
He said the captives would be released either in Balo-i or Munai town, Lanao del Norte.
“We hope they will be released soon,” Putallaz said.