The United Nations in the Philippines has issued a strong condemnation of a lethal ambush in Sumisip, Basilan, which resulted in the death of two soldiers and injuries to twelve others on January 22. Gustavo Gonzalez, the UN Philippines Resident Coordinator, expressed the organization’s unwavering commitment to remain and further 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 confirmed that no UN staff were near the attack site at the time. Additionally, Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon reported that the assailants, identified as lawless elements with support from some members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), also destroyed a military vehicle. This incident marks the first time a UN team has been involved in such an event since the peace process began. Gonzalez highlighted that the UN conducts thorough security risk assessments prior to any missions in the country.
UN Denounces Fatal Attack in Basilan, Commits to Continued Presence in BARMM
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