AFP: Basilan clash won't affect peace process

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stated that a recent deadly clash in Sumisip, Basilan, which resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and two alleged MILF members, will not disrupt the ongoing peace process.

AFP Spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla described the encounter as an isolated incident that is under investigation but has not hampered the peace process or its normalization program.

Padilla assured that the AFP is committed to upholding the progress achieved in the peace process and does not wish to undermine the years of gains.

The Normalization Program, part of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, aims to transform former MILF combatants into peaceful and productive civilians.

The AFP hopes such incidents will not happen again and is leaving it to the MILF to bring the involved members to justice.