The Philippine National Police (PNP) has tightened coordination with security forces, local government authorities and peace stakeholders across Mindanao to preserve regional stability and safeguard communities against potential security disruptions.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., directed all regional police units to maintain active channels of communication and resolve emerging security issues through dialogue and established protocols whenever possible.
“Our priority is to maintain peace and protect the public while supporting proper coordination with all stakeholders. We encourage everyone to observe the established procedures so that legitimate movements can proceed safely and without misunderstanding,” General Nartatez said.
The necessity of strict adherence to protocols was demonstrated on September 2, when joint police and military units peacefully intercepted a convoy carrying more than 100 armed members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Lanao del Norte.
The group, led by Commander Lungga Dimaampao, was en route to an MILF assembly in the municipality of Munai. While the group’s travel clearance covered movement within Lanao del Sur, it did not extend to Lanao del Norte.
Government security personnel informed the group that MILF members are strictly prohibited from carrying firearms during such transit under existing peace agreement protocols. Following the dialog, the armed members agreed to return to Picong, Lanao del Sur, while five vehicles carrying unarmed civilians were permitted to continue their journey to the assembly.
General Nartatez emphasized that proactive communication prevents operational confusion and ensures that legitimate gatherings proceed without compromising public safety.
“We view this as a coordination issue that was resolved peacefully. Our personnel acted to ensure public safety while respecting the established mechanisms for coordination with the MILF,” the PNP Chief said.