Buldon holds Muslim summit vs. terrorism, criminality, illegal drugs

COMMITMENT --- Buldon Mayor Abolais Manalao (6^th from left) vows to fight terrorism during a summit against terrorism, criminality, and illegal drugs last June 20 with the help of the authorities, religious leaders, and town residents following the recent attack of the Maute Group in Marawi City. (ANNE ACOSTA– MINDANAON EXPOSE’

BULDON, Maguindanao --- The local government of this town is determined to support the national leadership with the conduct of the “Muslim Summit against Terrorism, Criminality and Illegal Drugs” last June 20 held at the municipal gymnasium.

With the theme “Unity and Harmony amidst Diversity towards Peace and Security for Better Buldon,” Mayor Abolais Manalao said terrorism is an urgent and critical security threat.

Manalao said the threat of violence and terrorism hampers the economic growth in their area.

The recent Maute Group’s terror attacks in Marawi City shows their barbaric deeds.

“For one thing, the threat of terrorism is not only the problem and responsibility of our local leaders but of religious leaders as well since many terrorists misrepresent and misuse the Islamic faith to justify violence and terrorism,” Manalao said.

During the summit, religious leaders have emphasized that Islam could not be used to justify violent extremism and terrorism.

Ustadz Azis Ragundo, deputy mayor for religious sector, said proper education is necessary to rediscover Islamic faith.“Through this, we could prevent terroristic acts.”

Individuals giving their messages of commitment included Dr. Ali H. Musa, student/Arabic representative Yassin Abdullah, student/ English representative Jonair Palawan, Aleem Ismael Ito of the Imam sector, and District Supervision Arabic Mohammad Anwar M. Abdullah.

Those who gave their messages of support included MLGOO Latipa A. Dalinding, PNP-Maguindanao Provincial Director Col. Agustin J. Tello, AFP representative Col. Markton Abu, and Vice-Mayor Atty. Cairoden Pangunotan.

                               

Col. Tello said the summit would synchronize measures on how to restrain criminality, terrorism, and illegal drugs which affect the peace and order situation in the locality.

“Since the LGUs areat the forefront of this battle, they have a major role in combating terrorism. The summit will help confront terrorism at the municipal level,” said Col. Tello.

Manalao said religious leaders can contribute to the advocacy against terrorism by educating people about the true teachings of Islam.

“Close coordination at all times can help put an end to terrorism. We will continue to fight to have a peaceful Buldon,” the mayor said.

Other officials in the event were Lt. Col. Gerry Besana of the Army’s 6th Civil Military Operations Battalion of the 6^thInfantry Division, 37th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Florencio Politud Jr., and 603^rd Brigade commander Col. Jesus Sarsagat. (GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE ACOSTA– MINDANAON EXPOSE’)