Stress debriefing urged for ambush survivors, residents of ambush site

DAVAO CITY,   December 3 (PIA) A top military commander in Northern Mindanao called on humanitarian non-government organizations to extend help to the people in Loreto, Agusan del Sur in form of psychological assistance.

Speaking to reporters after paying a visit in the area, Major General Oscar Lactao, commander of the 4th Infantry Division observed the residents in Sitio Latay, Barangay Marfil, Loreto, Agusan del Sur are traumatized in the ambush where four civilians were killed and seven others wounded including four government troops Sunday afternoon.

He said the victims could hardly understand why a group of armed men opened fire on the ambulance they were riding shortly after hearing a thanksgiving mass.

“We urge non-government organizations to extend help in particular the stress debriefing of the victims and the residents in the ambush area,” Lactao said.

He said Loreto used to have a shadow government run by the rebels but those behind it are gradually coming out in the open after the local leadership of government shows sincerity in reaching out to the people.

“Mayor Otasa is walking the talk as he shows his sincerity in reaching out to his constituents.

Lactao said the leadership of the rebels in Northern Mindanao can be cited liability for the dastardly act which violated the Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.

He said the insurgency problem thrives in Loreto since the area is very isolated from other urban centers with its residents mostly indigenous peoples who are easy target for recruitment by the rebels.

Lactao believed that the communist insurgency in Northern Mindanao can be dismantled as long as local government units and line-government agencies stay united in reaching out to the people.

Lactao credited the efforts of Mayor Dario Otasa who is reaching out to his constituents through the basic services and affirms the peace and development push of the government.

“As long as all levels of government help in addressing the problems, the insurgency in Loreto can be dismantled,” he said.

Loreto is located in the boundary areas of Compostela Valley, and Agusan del Sur, populated by the indigenous peoples.

Lactao said insurgency thrives in Loreto, Agusan del Sur because it is isolated from other areas. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)