Muslims deny presence of extremists in valley

THE MUSLIM Community in La Trinidad, Benguet assured authorities in the province they

remain committed in keeping peace and order in the area.

In a letter addressed to La Trinidad Mayor Romeo Salda, Muslim leaders from Barangay Ambiong Muslim Community conveyed they are not a breeding ground for terrorists.

The letter was signed by president and SP03 Lucman Paca, Imams Hafiz Moamar Darimbang and Salahuddin Mauna, elders Hadji Ibrahim Magomnang, Palao Macalangcom, Rascal Sultan, and Ali Macalanggan.

“Rest assured that the Madrasa located in our community is not affiliated to any local nor international group whose aim is to spread havoc and it is not or will not be a breeding ground for any unwanted and illegal activities and that they, the (morits) students are solely taught of Qur-an memorization in good faith,” said the letter.

Punong Barangay and Councilor Teddy Quintos meanwhile clarified Muslim students in Ambiong are solely engaged in studying the whole Qur-an and afterwards, they respectfully return to their homes after the completion of six months of schooling.

In a recent Peace and Order Summit in La Trinidad Mayor Romeo Salda denied any presence of illegal acts by Muslim students who resides in the municipality such as Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

Benguet provincial director Superintendent Florante Camuyot also backed Salda.

“We have not monitored any, although we have our Muslims brothers and sisters that we continuously engage with,” said Camuyot.

Camuyot said engagement is done with the Muslim community especially in Buguias where most residents are from Marawi.