By Alexander Lopez
BUTUAN CITY – Police arrested 21 members of the Federal Tribal Government of the Philippines (FTGP), including its leaders, in Barangay Sabang, Surigao City on Thursday morning.
The leaders, identified as Jorgeto Corpuz Santisas (alias Datu Adlaw), Bae Lourdes Latraca Infante, and Ester Hilarion Santisas, were apprehended under an arrest warrant issued by the Municipal Trial Court Branch 2 in Surigao City for Usurpation of Authority under the Revised Penal Code.
Nine minors, a senior citizen, and two breastfeeding mothers were also taken into custody and placed under the care of the City Social Welfare and Development Office for medical check-ups and assistance.
Surigao City Mayor Pablo Yves Dumlao II condemned the group’s actions during a press conference Thursday morning.
“This operation is a testament to our firm stand against unlawful activities that mislead or endanger our citizens,” Dumlao said. “Surigao City will not tolerate any acts of deception, abuse of authority, or illegal activities that threaten public order and safety.”
Surigao City police chief Lt. Col. Mariano Lucban said authorities are awaiting additional arrest warrants for the group, which faces charges including two counts of large-scale illegal recruitment, qualified human trafficking, and violations of the Cybercrime Act of 2012.
“There are 12 criminal acts filed against the FTGP leaders and members,” Lucban said.
Last month, the FTGP padlocked several businesses in Surigao City, claiming ownership of lands they alleged were ancestral property. Their actions caused fear and alarm among residents, business owners, and media members.
The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and legitimate Indigenous Peoples leaders in the Caraga region have declared the FTGP an illegitimate and bogus organization. (PNA)
