Old Maguindanao capitol in Shariff Aguak town up for conversion to BFP-ARMM headquarters

COTABATO – Plans are underway for the conversion of the old provincial capitol in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao, into the headquarters of the Bureau of Fire Protection – Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The sprawling four-hectare capitol grounds, including its contemporary-designed buildings has been idle since 2009 following the infamous Maguindanao massacre incident in Barangay Salman, Ampatuan town that is linked to the family of former Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr.

The town of Ampatuan is contiguous to Shariff Aguak, the hometown and bailiwick of the once-influential Ampatuan clan in the province.

Fifty-seven victims, including the wife of incumbent Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu and 33 local journalists, were slaughtered in the carnage described as the worst pre-election related violence in the history Philippine politics.

However, Sr. Supt. Aderson Comar, BFP-ARMM chief, recently disclosed to have talked with Mangudadatu about his proposal to which the latter has agreed to study.

Comar said ample documents for the conversion of the complex is being finalized for the transfer of the BFP-ARMM office in Shariff Aguak.

He said part of the plan includes the setting up of a training facility for incoming firemen in the region.

The BFP-ARMM is currently leasing a 700-square meter office area along Gov. Gutierrez Ave. in this city. (PNA)