The United Nations in the Philippines has issued a strong condemnation of a lethal ambush in Basilan that resulted in the death of two soldiers and injuries to twelve others on January 22 in Sumisip town. Despite this violent incident, Gustavo Gonzalez, the UN Philippines Resident Coordinator, affirmed the UN’s commitment to remain and continue its peace and development initiatives in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Gonzalez extended condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the UN’s role in supporting peacebuilding efforts across various levels of government in the region. The attack occurred while Philippine military forces were en route to accompany a UN Development Programme team for a community engagement in Barangay Lower Cabengbeng. Gonzalez clarified that no UN staff were near the site of the ambush at the time. Additionally, Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon reported that the attackers, identified as lawless elements, destroyed a military vehicle and were engaged in combat, resulting in the deaths of two assailants, allegedly with support from some members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Gonzalez highlighted that this was the first such incident involving a UN team since the peace process began, and stressed that the UN conducts thorough security risk assessments prior to any missions in the country.
UN Denounces Fatal Ambush in Basilan, Commits to Continued Presence in BARMM
·
