PING TO LAWMAKERS: KEEP OFF THE MILITARY

MANILA, AUGUST 14, 2007 (STAR) By Aurea Calica - Sen. Panfilo Lacson
called yesterday on lawmakers to keep off the military at this time
when troops are on the offensive against rebels and terrorists in Sulu.

 “It would be much better for lawmakers to keep quiet for now
instead of commenting on the situation from the comfort of their air-conditioned
offices,” he said.

 “They may only be contributing to the problem by adding to the
confusion.”

 Lacson said now would not be the right time to act as “armchair
generals” as he rejected a legislative inquiry into the conflict.

 If lawmakers would like to solve the conflict, they can focus on
helping the families of slain government troops, he added.

 Lacson said it is the Armed Forces that has the expertise on tactical
maneuvers, not senators or congressmen.

 “Perhaps it would be better if lawmakers thought of ways to extend
assistance to relatives left behind by those killed or injured in the
line of duty,” he said. “That is definitely better than commenting on
something they know nothing about.”

 Lacson expressed hope that a Senate bill seeking to extend financial
assistance and benefits to the family of any police, soldier or fireman
killed or incapacitated in the line of duty be passed by Congress.

 Earlier, Sen. Joker Arroyo said his colleagues must restrain
themselves from meddling into the military offensive in Mindanao.

 “If they want an inquiry, it should not be done now when the
operations are ongoing,” he said. “Even in other countries like the United
States, they don’t meddle in the middle of the war.”




 Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

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