By Janice Cave
MANILA, (PNA) — The reported looting of a house in Bgy. Sta. Catalina in Zamboanga City by several soldiers is an “unacceptable” act, a Palace official said Wednesday.
“We frown on our own soldiers harming our own civilians on this matter. Looting is not acceptable, we’re there to protect our people,” Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said at a media briefing.
“The [Armed Forces of the Philippines] and this government will not tolerate any looting by our own soldiers. In fact, the leadership of AFP has already imposed sanctions on these soldiers who have done those despicable acts,” he added.
Five soldiers, whose names are withheld, are now being probed by the AFP.
The government forces are in an ongoing standoff with Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) rebels in Zamboanga City.