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Philippines

Philippines: Medical mission part of rehab process in Lanao Norte

ICC Iligan City (11 November) -- The on-going medical mission in the most affected towns of the armed conflict is part of the rehabilitation process being undertaken by the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte (LDN).

This was stressed by Cassan Maquiling, member of the Sangguniang Panglalawigan (SP) who said the medical mission is conducted, particularly in Poona Piagapo, Tangkal, Matungao, Munai and Kauswagan, which are the most affected towns of the on-going armed conflict in the province.

Maquiling also disclosed that the health problems within the evacuation centers has escalated as the internally displaced persons (IDP), mostly children, cannot be given proper medical attention and would rather stay in the Municipal Health Center due to financial constraints.

He, however, said that the Provincial Government has released some medical assistance as part of the relief operations since the start of the conflict last August 18, in coordination of the SP Committee on Disaster Preparedness.

Meanwhile, he said the municipality of Munai has made some efforts to convince the IDP's to go back to their place of origin so they can live a normal life again.

"We are encouraging the IDP's to go back to their places as the military have already sent some fillers that they can live a normal life and that they should no longer fear of being hit by crossfire," said Maquiling.

This, as the law enforcement operations for the manhunt of the lawless MILF group (LMG) under Bravo continues, he said.

Maquiling expressed hopes that this calamity will end soon, so these IDP's will be able to go home and so that there will be peace in the province and the other parts of Mindanao. (OSM - Radyo ng Bayan)