Filipino peacekeepers extricated and repositioned to safer grounds after Golan Heights attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 31): Filipino peacekeepers extricated and repositioned to safer grounds after Golan Heights attack

After the attack of Syrian rebels in Filipino positions at the Golan Heights Saturday morning (Syria time), the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) has successfully extricated and repositioned the Philippine contingent in a more secure location.

This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Sunday.

Yesterday, (Aug.30) at around 6 a.m. Syrian time (11 a.m. Philippine time), Syrian rebels initiated an attack on Position 68. Our troops defended their position. The Syrian rebels attacked on-board pick-up trucks. Our peacekeepers returned fire in self-defense," he added.

"Our troops fought back bravely and successfully held their positions. This attack prompted UNDOF to reposition our troops to a more secure position within the mission area," the AFP chief stressed.

Currently, Filipino peacekeepers from both Position 68 and 69 have successfully repositioned to Camp Ziuoani.

Catapang also added that Filipino troopers are being supported by the Syria and Israeli governments in their mission to uphold the integrity of the area of separation and to deescalate the situation.

"The teamwork demonstrated by our fellow UNDOF troop-contributing countries and the UN is exemplary. Other governments including the United States and Qatar also played a role in the safeguarding our peacekeepers," he pointed out.

Catapang said the AFP and the United Nations will not compromise the safety and security of its troops while in the pursuit of their duties.

He added that it is our national interest to prioritize their safety without abandoning our commitment to international security.

"We commend our soldiers for exhibiting resolve even while under heavy fire. This manifests their determination to fulfill our commitment to the community of nations," Catapang concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=678519