DAVAO CITY — The military denied the claim of progressive groups that it is supporting the Alamara, allegedly an anti-communist group of the indigenous peoples.
In a Philippine Information Agency dispatch, Major General Rafael Valencia, commander of the 10th Infantry Battalion said that the military supports primarily the indigenous peoples who are members of the Citizens Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU).
He stressed that these men are controlled by the Philippine Army through the cadres up to the chain of command.
Valencia said the Lumad ceased to become a member of any group once he becomes a member of the civilian active auxiliary, where he works in a detachment and takes orders from his higher ups.
He said before an IP member becomes a militia, he works as the tribe’s warrior or bagani.
“Once he becomes a civilian active auxiliary, he ceases to be a bagani and works with the armed forces.
Valencia stressed the military does not know about the Alamara group which allegedly moves on its own.
He said the military would even work for the disbandment of this group, especially if they are armed, “once we get the information”.
Valencia also welcomed the call for the soldiers to leave Talaingod, Davao del Norte.
“We are willing to pull out, especially if the local government would require us to leave the place,” Valencia said. However, he stressed that before leaving Talaingod, other sectors must be consulted to avoid accusing the soldiers of abandonment of assignment. (davaotoday.com)
