Mangudadatu condemns BIFF rebs’ attack during Ramadhan
MAGUINDANAO Rep. Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu on Sunday condemned in the strongest possible terms the attack carried by members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) during Ramadhan as he called for an end to the cycle of violence.
Mangudadatu heaved a sigh of relief that no civilian was hurt when BIFF members stormed the town of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao Saturday morning and temporarily occupied the town’s public market.
During the standoff between the military and BIFF members, Mangudadatu, together with other members of his family, coordinated and offered possible assistance authorities may require to further protect and ensure the safety of civilians.
“We are only thankful that no one was used as a hostage or was hurt when the two groups briefly exchanged fires,” Mangudadatu said.
He also condemned the act of violence instigated by the BIFF, especially in a time where the whole world is observing the holy month of Ramadhan.
“Ang pag-atakeng ito ng mga BIFF sa banal na panahon ng Ramadhan ay patunay lamang na walang kinikilala o pinagingilagang Diyos ang mga terrorista,” he said.
“Any act of terrorism in the guise of religion, will not succeed in undermining our foundations, traditions and democratic culture. Putulin na natin ang galit at paghihiganti. There are many ways we can reaffirm our commitment to our beliefs and values without resorting to violence and unrest,” Mangudadatu added.
He was also saddened by reports that some of the BIFF members were as young as 15 to 25 years old.
Nalulungkot ako na some of the BIFF recruits were as young as 15 years old. They are carrying firearms when they should be in school. Marami sa kabataaan natin ang nauuwi sa ganitong marahas na buhay dahil marahil ang kanilang mga ama ay dati ding miembro ng mga ganitong grupo na nasawi din sa isang engkwentro tulad nito,” Mangudadatu lamented.
He added that he is very familiar to stories where sons are forced to pick up the riffles of their fallen fathers, pursuing a life of violence they never wanted, thus the beginning of a never ending cycle of violence that is so vicious that it has led to many senseless and unnecessary deaths.
“Napapanahon na that we change the notion where violence is a part of life. It shouldn’t be and it never was. Hindi na mabilang ang mga kabataang inulila ng karahasan. It is about time we end this. Let us all advocate for peace in Maguindanao and of the whole of Bangsamoro,” Mangudadatu ended.
