NDF sets release of captured police officer

NDF flag. (Image from http://commons.wikimedia.org)

“The NDF-Southern Mindanao remains committed to the humane treatment and release of prisoners of war in compliance with the protocols of Geneva Conventions and other international humanitarian law instruments.” — Rubi del Mundo, NDF spokesperson

By DAVAO TODAY

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The National Democratic Front (NDF) in Southern Mindanao has announced the release of Maula Tato Ali, police officer 3 based in Arakan town.

Rubi del Mundo, NDF spokesperson, said they accepted the recommendation for Ali’s release following the investigation that showed “he did not commit significant offenses against the masses and the revolutionary forces.”

Ali was captured in a checkpoint mounted by the New People’s Army (NPA) last April 19 in Batobato village, President Roxas town.

The police officer was also found not guilty in the “cover-up” or “obstruction of justice” on the case of slain Italian priest Fr. Fausto “Pops” Tentorio in October 2011.

Del Mundo has urged the military to stop its operations particularly in the towns of Arakan, Magpet, Antipas and President Roxas in Cotabato province, as well as the “contiguous entry areas” in Davao City’s Baguio and Marilog Districts.

These areas are said to be under the 84th and 57th Infantry Battalions of the 10th Infantry Division. Del Mundo said these military units have “intensified abusive military operations” against the Mt. Apo Sub-regional command of the NPA, which serves as the custodial force of Ali, their “Prisoner of war” (POW).

This year, the NPA in Southern Mindanao released four captives: Pfc. Jezreel Culango and Senior Police Officer 1 Ruel Pasion on February 21; Police Officer 3 Ruben Nojapa, Jr on April 3 and Pfc.Mark Anthony G. Conception on April 5.

Based on their statements, the NPA currently holds three POWs. (davaotoday.com)