NEWS




26November

317 new JPST members from MILF- BIAF, PNP, AFP complete training in Maguindanao

Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao  –317 members of the Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) composed of representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Moro Islamic Liberation Front – Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF) completed their training at Camp Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun in Parang, Maguindanao on Friday, November 22.

 “I never would have thought that this event would be possible, where former foes in armed battle will become partners in spreading genuine peace,” said Mujahid Asghar Omar, an MILF-BIAF member said in an interview by OPAPP reporter who covered the ceremony. 

Omar is among the 150 MILF-BIAF who completed their training in the said camp in Parang, Maguindanao. 

The select members of MILF-BIAF, PNP, and AFP are trained on how to carry out their mandate of ensuring peace and security in areas mutually identified by both parties. During their training their skills were honed, and their knowledge enhanced.  

“To my JPST comrades, I will never forget you, you have all been very kind towards us BIAF. We will forever consider you as our real brothers,” Omar said.

The creation of JPSTs is among the many dividends of the Bangsamoro peace process, said Joint Peace and Security (JPSC) co-chair retired Army Col. Dickson Hermoso. 

Hermoso is currently the BARMM Minister of Transportation and Communication.

 You are the fruit of the peace process that ended the 44 years of armed conflict in Mindanao…you are now brothers, Hermoso told the graduates. 

“Many were widowed, lost their families, lost their lives because of the armed conflict. It is fortunate that our leaders such as President Duterte, Secretary Galvez, and Chief Minister Murad, found a way to end the armed conflict,” OPAPP Site quoted Hermoso Saying.

In a speech read on behalf of Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr, Hermoso said the graduation ceremony only marks the beginning of the JPST members’ journey in serving the Bangsamoro homeland.

“Let us bear in mind that this (graduation ceremony) only marks the beginning of fulfilling your valuable mission – to protect the Bangsamoro against those who will attempt to cause terror; and help the regional government in promoting sustainable peace and development in the area,” Hermoso said. (Source: OPAPP Site)