Military ‘informed’ about MILF attack 3 days ahead - report

DAVAO CITY, Philippines - Residents of the village of Libertad in Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte knew of the impending attack on their community three days ahead, and that they informed the military about it. Libertad village chief Bernie Roble said they were warned by some Moro village officials of the planned attack by members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which took place last Monday. He said this prompted them to have their women and children transfer to a safer villages. On Friday evening, August 15, Roble went to the headquarters of the Philippine Army's 32nd Infantry Battalion to inform them about the impending MILF raid. He said that instead of giving some consideration to the information, the military scolded us for believing in rumors about the attack. "Gikasuk-an naman hinoon me atong si Captain Baya kay ngano daw pataka lang mi ug tuo anang mga balitaa. Ingon pa niya ipakita daw namo sa iyaha ang among ebidensya (We were instead scolded by one Captain Baya saying we were just making stories. He said we should show him proof)," Roble said. Asked what evidence they have, Roble said that days before the attack Muslim residents in the area have suddenly fled their homes. He said this is one clear indication of an impending MILF raid. - Sun.Star Davao For the full story, please follow link.