Singson warns of facing Iraq-like situation

MANILA: New Deputy National Security Adviser Luis “Chavit” Singson yesterday warned that a prolonged war in Mindanao could turn the country into another Iraq. “Prolonging the war will only result in civilian casualties. In Iraq, the war doesn’t stop. People are always getting killed. We have to convince both sides to go back to the negotiating table,” Singson told reporters at the Kapihan sa Manila hotel forum.

The former Ilocos Sur governor, appointed recently by Malacañang to the sensitive post, has been getting flak for his supposed lack of qualifications.

His designation was reportedly part of the “political payback” to losing 2007 senatorial candidates like Ralph Recto, Tito Sotto and Prospero Pichay-all of whom now hold various appointed positions.

Singson denied his appointment was political payback, claiming his connections with former and present governors would be crucial in his latest job.

His connections, he said, would have been useful in the 2000 Sipadan kidnapping involving an American missionary couple had he been allowed to intercede.

“Abu Sabaya used to call me a lot during the Burnham kidnapping. In fact they announced through Radio Mindanao that Abu Sabaya wanted to release Burnham and the nurse through Gov. Chavit Singson but the military didn’t want me involved,” Singson said in Filipino.

“I have a lot of experience in sensitive situations. I know I can help the country so I accepted the post,” said the former Vigan police chief, adding it was a “sacrifice” for him to take the post.