I drop my recommendation for ML declaration over Sulu despite the turmoil as there might be other better options.
Besides, I always give due respect to the wisdom of our national leadership and the sentiment of the general public but I felt it appropriate to share with you that the military had displayed utmost professionalism and maturity during our ML implementation in Sulu when I was the JTF Sulu Commander in 2017.
We have realized substantial gains on our security efforts. We effectively reduced the number of kidnap victims from 54 to 3; a number of ASG key leaders were neutralized; there were more than a hundred of ASG members who had surrendered; more than a thousand loose/undocumented firearms were handed over; there was no single bomb attacked perpetrated by the ASGs; local chief executives were present in the province, and in their respective municipalities and barangays; government services were felt; convergence of efforts among stakeholders was enhanced; and the religious and traditional leaders, as well as the community as a whole were very supportive and cooperative to our peace efforts.
We remain committed to protect the interest of our Tausug brothers and sisters and the rest of the Filipinos. God bless Sulu and God bless all.
