Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Governor Mujiv Hataman has expressed unqualified support to the ongoing military action against the terror Maute group in Butig, Lanao del Sur, saying it was time to be “conscious and proactive” in fighting terrorism.
“It’s high time to address the security threats in the region,” Hataman told reporters here at the sidelines of the 3rd ARMM Local Government Unit Summit being held at the SMX Center here.
The ARMM comprises the cities of Marawi and Lamitan and the provinces of Sulu, Tawi-tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao.
A total of five provincial governors, two city mayors and 116 municipal mayors are expected to attend the two–day summit that started here Wednesday.
“We will study the state of governance in the ARMM during the summit,” the governor said in referral to existing security threats in the region.
The ARMM is currently facing a string of problems ranging from the militant Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao; the Abu Sayyaf Group in the island-provinces of the region; and the Maute terror group in Butig, Lanao del Sur, among others.
“For one, I support the law enforcement operation of the military against the Maute Group. There should be no let up as the operation is selective or concentrated only on groups threatening the peace in the region,” Hataman said.
He said the concern on the Maute group is a “recurring problem” for the region.
Hataman said the Maute group is just a small band of young men who are “mis-influenced” on embracing the Islamic State ideology.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is slated to address the ARMM officials in attendance during the closing day of the summit on December 1. (PNA)
