Sunday, March 26, 2017

Strong community support now turning tide against ASG -- WMC chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26): Strong community support now turning tide against ASG -- WMC chief

With the military getting strong public support, the fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Basilan and Sulu is now taking a turn for the better.

This was the observation made by Western Mindanao Command (WMC) commander Major Gen. Carlito Galvez after government troops successfully rescued a tugboat captain, abducted two days ago.

Victim Aurelio Agac-ac was rescued by WMC forces off Barangay Basakan, Hadji Mohammed Ajul town, Basilan 5:30 a.m. of March 25.

"Coordinations with local officials and communities coupled with the continuing pressure brought about by the presence of the troops in the areas believed to be where the sailors where initially hidden, resulted to the rescue of Agac-ac," Galvez said.

Agac-ac was immediately brought to Camp Navarro General Hospital for medical check-up and debriefing.

The former along with his chief engineer, Laurencio Tiro, were aboard manning a tugboat towing Panamanian-registered cargo vessel, Super Shuttle, Ro-Ro 9, off Sibago Island, when abducted by the ASG.

This prompted the WMC to launch a massive operations against the bandits.

"We acknowledge the growing awareness and support of the people in this fight against the Abu Sayyaf. Due recognition is also given to Governor Hataman of Basilan for his unrelenting efforts to rescue the sailor," Galvez said.

"Again, Western Mindanao Command will exhaust all means to track these kidnappers and rescue the other victims. This time, the effort will be stronger as it is backed by the peace-loving people of Western Mindanao," he added.

Operations are still ongoing to rescue Tiro and other ASG captives as of this posting.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=974979

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