Duterte thumbs down NPA, MNLF participation in Marawi clash

President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday thumbed down the idea of New People's Army and the Moro National Liberation Front fighters joining government troops amid the Marawi City crisis.

In a speech before soldiers in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, Duterte pointed out possible problematic scenarios should this happen.

"Nag-offer ang NPA, nakikipaglabanan sa gobyerno, sama-sama. Sabi ko, 't-- ina baka lahat ng tama ng sundalo ko sa likod. Walang sa harap," he told

"It’s not because I do not trust them but it simply does not fit into the picture," he added.

Aside from communists guerillas, MNLF founding chairperson Nur Misuari also offered to help the government.

"Si Nur promised to send also 2,000 of the MNLF soldiers. Sabi ko, huwag kasi pagdating doon maghalo-halo tayo. Hindi lahat tayo nakakaintindi lahat ng -- ang Tausug naman kung marunong kang mag-Bisaya, maintidihan mo ‘yan. Magdahan-dahan lang salita," he said.

"Sabi ko, huwag na. Kasi marami na tayo, hindi tayo magkaintindihan. Baka tayo-tayo na ang barilan doon. Sabi ko, 'Hayaan mo lang ako. Just give us your understanding and be patient. We will restore order in this country,'" he added.

Earlier, Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana said NPA rebels should first surrender and enlist for military service first before they can help in the government offensive against ISIS-linked Maute group.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr. has previously said that there should be protocols before the MNLF could join military operations.

Meanwhile, the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front peace implementing panels have set up a Peace Corridor in Lanao del Sur to help trapped civilians in Marawi City. —JST, GMA News