Statement of the Department of Foreign Affairs:On the presence of an estimated 200FILIPINOS  in

Lahad Datu, Sabah

[February 15, 2013]

Malaysian Foreign Minister Anifah Aman called Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario this morning to assure the Secretary that the Malaysian Government is addressing the presence of an estimated 200 Filipinos, some of whom are armed, in Lahad Datu, Sabah through negotiations to encourage them to leave peacefully, for which the Secretary expressed his appreciation.

It was also established that our Armed Forces’ Chief-of-Staff and the Malaysian Military Chief were able to clarify that the activity of this Filipino group was not sanctioned by the Philippine Government.

Secretary del Rosario sought the assurance of the Malaysian authorities to ensure that the rights of those Filipinos, who are permanent residents in Sabah and who may be among the group, are respected.

In this regard, we therefore urge these concerned individuals to return to their homes and families.

Philippine military and police authorities are exchanging information and closely consulting with their Malaysian counterparts in efforts towards an immediate resolution to this incident.

At the same time, increased patrols and tighter security measures have been put in place in waters off Tawi-Tawi and adjoining islands.

On the case of Manuel Amalilio, Foreign Minister Anifah informed the Secretary that he is strongly advocating the early turnover of Mr. Amalilio to the Philippine Government.

The Foreign Minister confirmed the order of the Attorney General to freeze the assets of Mr. Amalilio.

dfa.gov.ph

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