Brunei sends new batch of peace monitors to southern Philippines

The Bruneian members of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) are the fourth batch of peacekeepers sent to southern Philippines by the IMT. It is headed by Major Haji Mohd Rosmandi, Company B Commander of the Third Battalion, according to Philippine Ambassador to Brunei Virginia Benavidez.

"Brunei Darussalam`s participation in overseas operations is considered another milestone in the country`s contributions to regional cooperation and support for peace and stability for neighboring countries," Benavidez said in a statement.

She also reiterated Manila`s deep appreciation for Brunei`s active participation and continued involvement in the IMT.

Together with IMT members from other countries including Malaysia and Libya, the Brunei IMT contingent will be responsible for observing and monitoring cessation of hostilities and the implementation of socio-economic development projects.

Despite reports that Malaysia will withdraw its peace monitors due to delays in the peace talks, the Malacanang presidential palace said Kuala Lumpur assured that they will stay on in support of Manila`s efforts to resolve the dispute with the MILF.

A final peace accord with the rebels is expected to end more than two decades of Muslim rebellion in Mindanao, which has resulted to thousands of deaths on the MILF and government troops and displacement of tens of thousands of households in the southern Philippines.

The MILF, the largest Islamic separatist movement in the country, has been waging an armed struggle against the government for the past 25 years. It is believed to have about 12,000 armed members.

Source: www.reliefweb.int

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