Monday, September 24, 2007 MILF hits military ban on journalist in Basilan By Ben O. Tesiorna
THE Moro Islamic Liberation Front has criticized the decision of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to ban a journalist from covering its operations in Basilan.
Khaled Musa, deputy chair of the MILF Committee on Information, expressed his concern over the military's "arm-twisting approach."
Musa said instead of banning Philippine Daily Inquirer reporter Julie S. Alipala, the military should conduct an inquiry into the veracity of the reported abuses and lapses.
Alipala was reportedly banned after she wrote an article about alleged military abuses and lapses in its operations.
"The military should investigate and if her report has no basis then she can be liable for libel and should be charged in court, but there is enough evidence of her report then she should be commended," Musa said.
"It is good that there are still courageous media people out there who can say to the military that there are problems in your ranks in the field," Musa said.
Marine commandant Major General Ben Dolorfino confirmed Alipala has been banned by the military from covering its operations in Basilan.
Alipala wrote an article on the August 18 clash in Unkaya Pukan town in Basilan, where 15 Marines were killed by the Abu Sayyaf.
Since then Alipala allegedly started receiving threats and was warned by colleagues to be extra careful.
