Terrorism in Mindanao

3 teachers kidnapped in ZamboangaBy Julie AlipalaMindanao Bureau
Inquirer.net / 01-23-09

5 MILF, 2 soldiers killed in clashes in Maguindanao
By John Unson
philstar.com / 01-12-09

Basilan gov declares all-out war vs Abu Sayyaf
abs-cbnnews.com 07/01/2009 11:33 AM

MILF, government troops clash in Lanao and Cotabato Provincesluwaran.com / 05/26-09

Sulu govt urges war on SayyafBy Arlyn dela Cruz Philippine Daily Inquirer / 07-12-09

Abu Sayyaf to be beaten by year-end: AFP spokesmanAgence France-Presse
Abs-cbnnews.com / 07-13-09

I desired to talk about the history of terrorism in some parts of Mindanao. But I am definitely not equipped with too much information about the issue. One thing I am sure of is that stories about seemingly endless violence in several provinces and cities of Mindanao is a mainstay in various broadsheets and tabloids, tv and radio programs and news online for so many years. It’s everyday news.

When I was in elementary, my Sibika and Kultura teachers taught us the different types of natural resources, the rich history and culture of the Philippines, and all other amazing things about our country. Even the wars during the Spanish era, the Japanese invasion and American advent didn’t matter too much. There was victory in the end. Ultimately, the wonderful pictures of the Philippines have greater impact in my memory. Of course that includes the marvels of Mindanao.

Today, the battle is no longer between Filipinos and foreign invaders. It’s Filipinos versus Filipinos in some parts of our country.

It is so devastating that as I grow up the pleasant image of Mindanao that I saw in the past is starting to fade. War hurts not only our economy but it also paralyzes the freedom of the native residents to live in peace and for the tourists to explore the beauties of the Philippine islands in the South.

I don’t know how the terrible situation will end. I just hope it will - very soon. I hope the next generation will appreciate Mindanao the way I saw it way back.