MNLF leader in stable condition after road mishap

MANILA, Philippines – Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader and former Cotabato City mayor Muslimin Sema is now in stable condition after his van hit a trailer truck while traversing a curve along a national highway in Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Maguindanao.

Police said Sema hit his head but is now in stable condition.

He was airlifted to Davao City right after the incident, said his brother Romeo Sema, who is also the secretary general of the MNLF central committee.  

Sema was on his way to Cotabato from General Santos City when the accident happened. 

One of his escorts, Bandon Ampatuan – who was with him in the van – died. Two other escorts, identified as Nords Dimasangkay and Samad Tasil, were wounded but in stable condition.  

Midtimbang police chief Jun Olis said police are exploring two possible angles behind the incident. 

Initial investigation shows the tire of the truck that hit Sema’s van may have exploded. Police are also determining whether or not the truck driver fell asleep while driving, causing the accident. 

The driver of the truck, Antonio de Lara, is in police custody. 

Sema is the chairman of the Executive Council of 15, an MNLF faction. The MNLF signed a peace agreement with the government in 1996. – Rappler.com