AFP forms anti-terror task force

From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 24): AFP forms anti-terror task force

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has organized an anti-terrorism task force that will intensify the security operations against foreign and local terrorist groups and criminal elements out to sow terror in the city.

Colonel Roberto Ancan, 1002nd Brigade commander, said the task force headed by Lt. Col. Noel Luoang will be composed of personnel from the 39th Infantry Battalion, 72nd Infantry Battalion, local police, and public safety office of the local government which will take charge of maintaining peace and order and curbing terror threats for the entire city which is home to some 150 local residents.

Mayor Joseph Evangelista said the city government will provide the necessary funding and logistical support to the task force which is tasked not only to secure the city but the neighboring towns as well.

Evangelista cautioned the members of the task force to uphold the human rights of civilians while discharging their official duties.

“The task force’s primordial task is to secure the people of the city from terror threats and criminality,” Evangelista said.

He said the city is plagued with imminent threats coming from communist rebels and Islamic militants.

Luoang, former executive officer of 39th IB, said the task force will conduct anti-terrorism operations and will help the local police in law enforcement operations.

http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/08/24/afp-forms-anti-terror-task-force/