Troops, armor sent to Maguindanao town - report

Following reported threats of harassment and arson, two armored vehicles and added military troops were sent to Pagalungan town in Maguindanao province, online newspaper MindaNews reported Tuesday night. The report said the Army's 7th Infantry Battalion were deployed to the town hall after the local police received word that a group of "lawless elements" planned to "storm and burn" the town hall. It said Mayor Macabangen Montawal told dxND Radio for Peace that as early as 4 a.m. Monday morning, he had received text messages and intelligence reports on the matter. Montawal also assured his constituents that despite the numerous threats he has been receiving, it would not affect the daily operation of the employees inside the municipal hall. On the other hand, Montawal’s spokesman Alonto Bangkulet attributed the numerous threats to the recently concluded May 14 elections. Bangkulet said there are groups that could not accept the results of the election. - GMANews.TV