Philippine Senate Sept. 9 – Senator Nancy Binay today appealed to the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) led by Chairman Nur Misuari to allow humanitarian aid groups to enter its controlled villages in Zamboanga City without the fear of being harassed, abducted or killed.
Binay has asked the MNLF and government troops to provide for the “secure and peaceful entry of the Philippine Red Cross and other relief organizations so that they could start delivering vital supplies to the affected residents of the areas” being held by the MNLF.
“I appeal to the leadership of the MNLF, for humanitarian reasons, to allow those residing in the barangays under their control, access to food and other basic necessities,” Binay said in reaction to reports that stores, pharmacies as well as other commercial establishments were closed in the city.
The lady senator is asking the National Food Authority (NFA) and the Department of Health (DOH) to set up mobile centers in Zamboanga City to facilitate the distribution of rice, sugar, milk, coffee and essential medicines for the people of Zamboanga to have access to food and other basic necessities. The stand-off is already on its second day.
“Life has literally stopped in Zamboanga City. The national government must immediately ensure that the people of Zamboanga, especially those who have been displaced brought by the political tension, still have access to food and medicines. Immediate response from aid agencies like NFA and DOH are essential in providing the needed support in these times of conflict,” Binay added.
Binay has reiterated her appeal to the MNLF to release the more than 30 hostages being held in at least six villages in the city.
“Nakikiusap ako na sana pakawalan na ang mga bata na naiipit sa sitwasyon na wala naman silang kinalaman,” Binay said as she appealed for the safe evacuation of children, women and those who are critically sick and wounded.
She likewise urged the MNLF and the government to ensure the safe and orderly delivery of food and other basic necessities such as water and medicine as well as the Department of Trade and Industry to monitor establishments that will take advantage of the situation.
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