From UNTV News & Rescue (Apr 19, 2020): Phl Army seizes NPA’s temporary training ground in Iloilo (Maris Federez)
ILOILO, Philippines — The 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion of the Philippine Army (PA) has reported an encounter with more or less 40 CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) believed to be members of Suyak (SDG) Platoon in Sitio Anoy, Barangay Cabalaunan, Miagao, Iloilo at about 10:20 in the morning, Saturday, April 18.
The Army said in a statement released on the same day that its troops were conducting combat operations in response to a report about the training of newly recruited CNTs in the area when the clash broke out.
The PA added that the firefight lasted for 35 minutes before the enemies scampered towards different directions leaving their dead comrade behind.
LtC. Joel Benedict G. Batara INF, the 61st IB Commanding Officer, said the troops captured one body count, seven personalities believed to be CNTs including 1 minor, age 14.
The troop also recovered one M1 Garand Rifle with live ammunitions, one KG9 sub-machine gun, one cal. 45 pistol, one cal. 45 pistol holster, two 12-gauge shotguns with 4 live ammunitions, one pistolized home-made shotgun, two IEDs, seven backpacks, two Bandolier, six NPA sweat shirts, two NPA flags, and subversive documents and medical paraphernalia.
“The CNTs are taking advantage of the current crisis and conducted massive recruitment and training among minors. Part of their training and test mission is to conduct tactical offensive against government forces and sabotage vital facilities. We will not allow those lawless elements to harass our forces helping to fight COVID19 virus,” LtC. Batara added.
The Army went further by commending the vigilance of the locals in reporting the presence of the CPP-NPA Terrorists in their area.
This resulted in what the Army referred to as successful deterrence of CPP-NPA’s terroristic activities.
https://www.untvweb.com/news/phl-army-seizes-npas-temporary-training-ground-in-iloilo/
Saturday, April 18, 2020
2 rebels killed in clashes
From the Mindanao Times (Apr 19, 2020): 2 rebels killed in clashes (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)
Two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a series of clashes in Km. 22, Sitio San Francisco, Barangay Campawan, Baganga, Davao Oriental involving soldiers of the 67th Infantry Battalion at 11:20 a.m. on April 16.
2Lt Kreanne Carmona, the civil-military operations officer, said soldiers also recovered one M16 and three AK-47 rifles, along with three landmines, and subversive documents.
The Scout Platoon and Platoon Bravo, under 2Lt. Kevin Saturno and 1Lt. Begex Manalo, respectively, were conducting focused military operations when they encountered 30 members of Front North, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC1) of the Southern Mindanao Regional Command (SMRC).
The clash lasted for 30 minutes before the NPAs escaped.
Prior to the encounter, the military received reports of armed groups meandering in the area. According to the Army, the indigenous community was afraid that the rebels are not following the enhanced community quarantine protocols, which puts them in harm’s way.
Meanwhile, another encounter erupted in the same barangay on April 17, resulting in the recovery of two high-powered firearms.
The Alpha Company, led by 1Lt. Al Bryan Villanueva, was conducting a blocking operation on the fleeing NPAs when they clashed with remnants of Front North, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC1).
The firefight lasted for 30 minutes.
The municipal government of Baganga, Davao Oriental already declared the (NPA) as persona non grata.
Lt Col. Louie Dema-ala, the commander of the 67IB, said the members of the NPA were trying to disrupt the peace and order of the municipality.
Similarly, the battalion is thankful to the people of Barangay Campawan for taking action against the NPA.
“The unit also urged other NPA members to surrender,” Dema-ala said. “We are assuring you of your safety and we will assist you to avail the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.”
2Lt Kreanne Carmona, the civil-military operations officer, said soldiers also recovered one M16 and three AK-47 rifles, along with three landmines, and subversive documents.
The Scout Platoon and Platoon Bravo, under 2Lt. Kevin Saturno and 1Lt. Begex Manalo, respectively, were conducting focused military operations when they encountered 30 members of Front North, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC1) of the Southern Mindanao Regional Command (SMRC).
The clash lasted for 30 minutes before the NPAs escaped.
Prior to the encounter, the military received reports of armed groups meandering in the area. According to the Army, the indigenous community was afraid that the rebels are not following the enhanced community quarantine protocols, which puts them in harm’s way.
Meanwhile, another encounter erupted in the same barangay on April 17, resulting in the recovery of two high-powered firearms.
The Alpha Company, led by 1Lt. Al Bryan Villanueva, was conducting a blocking operation on the fleeing NPAs when they clashed with remnants of Front North, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC1).
The firefight lasted for 30 minutes.
The municipal government of Baganga, Davao Oriental already declared the (NPA) as persona non grata.
Lt Col. Louie Dema-ala, the commander of the 67IB, said the members of the NPA were trying to disrupt the peace and order of the municipality.
Similarly, the battalion is thankful to the people of Barangay Campawan for taking action against the NPA.
“The unit also urged other NPA members to surrender,” Dema-ala said. “We are assuring you of your safety and we will assist you to avail the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.”
3 of 11 soldiers killed in Sulu hacked by Abu Sayyaf – military
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 18, 2020): 3 of 11 soldiers killed in Sulu hacked by Abu Sayyaf – military (By: Julie S. Alipala)
ZAMBOANGA CITY — Three of the 11 soldiers killed in a fierce gunfight with Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Patikul, Sulu, on Friday (April 17) were hacked.
According to Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command chief, the three soldiers were finished off by the terrorists that way even as they also tried to behead one officer who was killed, 1st Lt. Rogelio Deligero Jr.
“Their faces are beyond recognition,” a somber Sobejana told the Inquirer.
A company of soldiers was deployed to pursue top Abu leader Radullan Sahiron and his close aide Hatib Sawadjaan when they encountered more than 40 men in Sitio Bud Lubong of Barangay Danag in Patikul town at around 3 p.m. on Friday.
The clash happened within the so-called Sinumaan complex, known to be Sahiron’s lair.
Sobejana, who flew to Sulu on Saturday, said the soldiers were at a disadvantaged position as they were on low-ground while the enemy was on high ground.
When the gunfight ensued, the soldiers and Abu Sayyaf members were exchanging gunfires close to each other, Sobejana added.
In the course of the heavy encounter, Sobejana said the unit led by Deligero was the hardest hit.
“Our soldiers have to maneuver towards a vantage position. Unfortunately, the enemy was able to close in on some of them, hence they were killed in action,” Sobejana further said.
Sobejana acknowledged that this is the first time since mid-2019 that soldiers were on a disadvantaged position in a clash with the Abu Sayyaf group.
“We were always at an upper hand,” he noted.
Sobejana said despite the setback, the troops in Sulu “are still well-motivated” to continue the campaign against the Abu Sayyaf that was stepped up in July 2019, following the series of suicide bombing attacks, first inside the Jolo cathedral and then at a military detachment in Indanan town.
“We reassessed the security situation and we saw that there is a need to readjust especially in as far as the concept of operation is concerned,” Sobejana revealed.
On Saturday afternoon, a military aircraft ferried the bodies of eight fallen soldiers from Northern Luzon to Manila where a funeral honor was expected to be held.
Three bodies will be flown separately: one in Calbayog for Deligero, another one in Davao, bound for Bukidnon, and the last one in Cotabato, bound for Maguindanao.
Sobejana said the caskets of three soldiers who were hacked, among them Deligero, will remain closed.
Of the 14 wounded soldiers, two were brought to the Zamboanga Peninsula Medical Center in Zamboanga City and 12 are being treated inside the Trauma Hospital of Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu.
The country’s military leadership mourned the loss of the 11 soldiers, ordering flags to be flown at half-staff in its camps and installations.
The soldiers killed in the encounter were Deligero; Staff Sgt. Jason P. Gazzingan; Corporals John T. Manodom, Mark Dixter U. Montenegro, Rasul B. Ao-As, Jomar A. Ninalga, and Ernesto L. Bautista Jr.; Privates First Class Benson A. Bongguic, Jomel N. Pagulayan, and Premark P. Vallecer; and Private Jiydon T. Usman, the youngest among the troop.
Meanwhile, those wounded were Staff Sgt. Alexander B. Bolesa; Sgt. Oliver Y. Salvador; Corporals Cpl Erick A. Curioso, Jesus P. Genora, Apollo D. Papa, Johnday B. Sabaway, and Narciso W. Salidad Jr.; Privates First Class Robert M. Arias, Odit P. Flores, Jaypee L. Maddawing, and Solomon T. Ngayak; and Privates RJ G. Estiban and Jesrael U. Sapao.
ZAMBOANGA CITY — Three of the 11 soldiers killed in a fierce gunfight with Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Patikul, Sulu, on Friday (April 17) were hacked.
According to Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command chief, the three soldiers were finished off by the terrorists that way even as they also tried to behead one officer who was killed, 1st Lt. Rogelio Deligero Jr.
“Their faces are beyond recognition,” a somber Sobejana told the Inquirer.
A company of soldiers was deployed to pursue top Abu leader Radullan Sahiron and his close aide Hatib Sawadjaan when they encountered more than 40 men in Sitio Bud Lubong of Barangay Danag in Patikul town at around 3 p.m. on Friday.
The clash happened within the so-called Sinumaan complex, known to be Sahiron’s lair.
Sobejana, who flew to Sulu on Saturday, said the soldiers were at a disadvantaged position as they were on low-ground while the enemy was on high ground.
When the gunfight ensued, the soldiers and Abu Sayyaf members were exchanging gunfires close to each other, Sobejana added.
In the course of the heavy encounter, Sobejana said the unit led by Deligero was the hardest hit.
“Our soldiers have to maneuver towards a vantage position. Unfortunately, the enemy was able to close in on some of them, hence they were killed in action,” Sobejana further said.
Sobejana acknowledged that this is the first time since mid-2019 that soldiers were on a disadvantaged position in a clash with the Abu Sayyaf group.
“We were always at an upper hand,” he noted.
Sobejana said despite the setback, the troops in Sulu “are still well-motivated” to continue the campaign against the Abu Sayyaf that was stepped up in July 2019, following the series of suicide bombing attacks, first inside the Jolo cathedral and then at a military detachment in Indanan town.
“We reassessed the security situation and we saw that there is a need to readjust especially in as far as the concept of operation is concerned,” Sobejana revealed.
On Saturday afternoon, a military aircraft ferried the bodies of eight fallen soldiers from Northern Luzon to Manila where a funeral honor was expected to be held.
Three bodies will be flown separately: one in Calbayog for Deligero, another one in Davao, bound for Bukidnon, and the last one in Cotabato, bound for Maguindanao.
Sobejana said the caskets of three soldiers who were hacked, among them Deligero, will remain closed.
Of the 14 wounded soldiers, two were brought to the Zamboanga Peninsula Medical Center in Zamboanga City and 12 are being treated inside the Trauma Hospital of Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu.
The country’s military leadership mourned the loss of the 11 soldiers, ordering flags to be flown at half-staff in its camps and installations.
The soldiers killed in the encounter were Deligero; Staff Sgt. Jason P. Gazzingan; Corporals John T. Manodom, Mark Dixter U. Montenegro, Rasul B. Ao-As, Jomar A. Ninalga, and Ernesto L. Bautista Jr.; Privates First Class Benson A. Bongguic, Jomel N. Pagulayan, and Premark P. Vallecer; and Private Jiydon T. Usman, the youngest among the troop.
Meanwhile, those wounded were Staff Sgt. Alexander B. Bolesa; Sgt. Oliver Y. Salvador; Corporals Cpl Erick A. Curioso, Jesus P. Genora, Apollo D. Papa, Johnday B. Sabaway, and Narciso W. Salidad Jr.; Privates First Class Robert M. Arias, Odit P. Flores, Jaypee L. Maddawing, and Solomon T. Ngayak; and Privates RJ G. Estiban and Jesrael U. Sapao.
Kalinaw News: 91IB distributes relief goods to Indigenous People
Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 17, 2020): 91IB distributes relief goods to Indigenous People (By 7th Infantry Division)
BALER, Aurora – For this COVID-19 crisis, giving and sharing are considered as the most important things to do.
And due to the ongoing implementation of Enhance Community Quarantine (ECQ), the public is greatly affected in terms of work and other livelihood activities.
With this, the Charlie (Cougar) Company, 91IB, 7ID, PA led by 1LT GENESIS G SALILI (CE) PA, Commanding Officer, Charlie Coy distributed one hundred (100) food packs to the Indigenous People (IP) communities at Barangay Diteki, San Luis, Aurora on 14 April 2020 as part of the unit’s Enhanced Adopt-a-Brgy Program “Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko”.
Relatedly, SINAGTALA troopers led by 1LT CANDIDATO S PADUMAN (INF) PA, Bn Civil-Military Operations Officer and 2LT MARRIELA H BLASCO (INF) PA, Assistant CMO Officer, under the supervision of LTC REANDREW P RUBIO INF (GSC) PA, Acting Commanding Officer of 91IB assisted the group of Atty. Gennette Anne Villabeza, 91IB Legal Retainer, Atty. Rocky Rico Gojunco, and their family in the distribution of food packs to the tribal communities in the Barangays of Ditale, Dibutonan, and Dianed, all of Dipaculao, Aurora benefiting two hundred fifty (250) families on the same day.
Hon. Eliza R Mape, Barangay Captain of Barangay Ditale, Dipaculao appreciated the assistance of the group and expressed her sincerest thanks to Atty. Villabeza, her family and to the SINAGTALA troopers who always supporting their community by giving food packs to the IP or locally known as “Katutubo”.
“It’s a big help for the IP families,” Mape said.
Likewise, LTC RUBIO also expressed his thanks to Atty. Villabeza and family for the initiative and inviting the unit in the conduct of relief assistance targeting the marginalized sector.
“We really need this kind of endeavor especially at this moment wherein most of the people are seeking for any assistance both from the government and private sectors,” RUBIO said.
Meanwhile, COL ANDREW D COSTELO INF (GSC) PA, Commander, 703rd Agila Brigade, 7ID, Philippine Army commended the efforts of SINAGTALA troopers and the initiatives of Atty. Villabeza and her family for their efforts in providing the food packs to the IP communities.
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/91ib-distributes-relief-goods-to-indigenous-people/
BALER, Aurora – For this COVID-19 crisis, giving and sharing are considered as the most important things to do.
And due to the ongoing implementation of Enhance Community Quarantine (ECQ), the public is greatly affected in terms of work and other livelihood activities.
With this, the Charlie (Cougar) Company, 91IB, 7ID, PA led by 1LT GENESIS G SALILI (CE) PA, Commanding Officer, Charlie Coy distributed one hundred (100) food packs to the Indigenous People (IP) communities at Barangay Diteki, San Luis, Aurora on 14 April 2020 as part of the unit’s Enhanced Adopt-a-Brgy Program “Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko”.
Relatedly, SINAGTALA troopers led by 1LT CANDIDATO S PADUMAN (INF) PA, Bn Civil-Military Operations Officer and 2LT MARRIELA H BLASCO (INF) PA, Assistant CMO Officer, under the supervision of LTC REANDREW P RUBIO INF (GSC) PA, Acting Commanding Officer of 91IB assisted the group of Atty. Gennette Anne Villabeza, 91IB Legal Retainer, Atty. Rocky Rico Gojunco, and their family in the distribution of food packs to the tribal communities in the Barangays of Ditale, Dibutonan, and Dianed, all of Dipaculao, Aurora benefiting two hundred fifty (250) families on the same day.
Hon. Eliza R Mape, Barangay Captain of Barangay Ditale, Dipaculao appreciated the assistance of the group and expressed her sincerest thanks to Atty. Villabeza, her family and to the SINAGTALA troopers who always supporting their community by giving food packs to the IP or locally known as “Katutubo”.
“It’s a big help for the IP families,” Mape said.
Likewise, LTC RUBIO also expressed his thanks to Atty. Villabeza and family for the initiative and inviting the unit in the conduct of relief assistance targeting the marginalized sector.
“We really need this kind of endeavor especially at this moment wherein most of the people are seeking for any assistance both from the government and private sectors,” RUBIO said.
Meanwhile, COL ANDREW D COSTELO INF (GSC) PA, Commander, 703rd Agila Brigade, 7ID, Philippine Army commended the efforts of SINAGTALA troopers and the initiatives of Atty. Villabeza and her family for their efforts in providing the food packs to the IP communities.
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/91ib-distributes-relief-goods-to-indigenous-people/
Kalinaw News: NPA member surrenders, reveals arms cache in SurNor
Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 17, 2020): NPA member surrenders, reveals arms cache in SurNor (By 4th Infantry Division)
PLACER, Surigao del Norte – Former Communist-NPA Terrorist (CNT) member surrendered to the 30th Infantry Python Battalion (30IB) and led troops to the arms cache at Sitio Baliw, Barangay Payapag, Surigao del Norte on April 16, 2020 at 5:00pm resulting to the recovery of one (1) M14 Rifle, One (1) M16 Rifle with 2 magazines short, One (1) KG9 pistol and 2 magazines with several ammunition, one (1) UZI with 1 magazine and several ammunition and three (3) 50m rolls of electric wire.
Prior to the recovery, the Fomer Rebel, a former member of Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG), North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), surrendered to 30IB bringing along with him his CNT-issued high-powered firearm. He immediately connived with another FR to recall the arms cache that they hid at the secret location in the town of Bacuag, SDN.
When asked what led him to turn himself to the Python Troopers, the FR said, “Wala mihatag ug maayong pagtagad ug pagpakabana sa amoang mga manggugubat ang among mga commander. Ang ilang pasalig nga supporta nga pinansyal sa among pamilya usa ka bakak. Adunay daghang kwarta nga nadawat ang among mga commander pero sila sila ra ang nagpahimolos. Grabeng kagutom ug kalisod among kahimtang as bukid, labi na kung naay operation ang mga sundalo. Ug ang dili gyud nako madawat, ang pang pahimolos sa mga lumad nga kumunidad sa bukid sa pagsige ug pangayo sa ila ug pagkaon ug ang pagpatay sa mga myembro sa mao ra gihapon nga lumad tungod sa mga pasangil nga tumo-tumo. Karon, nahigmata nako sa kamatuoran sa ilang pagpangilad, ug sa mga tam-is nga pulong para maka-ingganyo sa mga batanon. Dako ang akong pagpasalamat sa mga sundalo sa ilang maayo nga pagdawat sa akoa. Diri sa ilahang kampo nahimamat nako ug usab ang mga kanhing mga NPA sama sa akoa ug ako buhi nga saksi nga sila maayo ang kahimtang ug wala gi abuso sa mga sundalo. Kani nagpamatood nga bakak na pud ang mga propaganda sa among mga NPA commander sa amoa nga kung kami mo surrender sa Army kami kulatahon ug patyon.’
Lt. Col. Jeffrey A Villarosa, Commanding Officer of 30IB said, “As a frontliner in our fight against threats to our national security, it always bring joy to our hearts to welcome former NPA rebels surrender and go back to the folds of our laws. We welcome them because we know that they were once fooled by the propaganda and deception of the CNTs and now they want to give themselves and their families live normal lives once again.”
“Your 30IB Python Troopers, in close tie-up with our local government, other government agencies, civil society organizations, and the peace-loving Surigaonons, will continue to urge the remaining CNT members to lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law. Avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government. Give yourself, your family and our community another chance to peace,” Villarosa added.
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-member-surrenders-reveals-arms-cache-in-surnor/
PLACER, Surigao del Norte – Former Communist-NPA Terrorist (CNT) member surrendered to the 30th Infantry Python Battalion (30IB) and led troops to the arms cache at Sitio Baliw, Barangay Payapag, Surigao del Norte on April 16, 2020 at 5:00pm resulting to the recovery of one (1) M14 Rifle, One (1) M16 Rifle with 2 magazines short, One (1) KG9 pistol and 2 magazines with several ammunition, one (1) UZI with 1 magazine and several ammunition and three (3) 50m rolls of electric wire.
Prior to the recovery, the Fomer Rebel, a former member of Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG), North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), surrendered to 30IB bringing along with him his CNT-issued high-powered firearm. He immediately connived with another FR to recall the arms cache that they hid at the secret location in the town of Bacuag, SDN.
When asked what led him to turn himself to the Python Troopers, the FR said, “Wala mihatag ug maayong pagtagad ug pagpakabana sa amoang mga manggugubat ang among mga commander. Ang ilang pasalig nga supporta nga pinansyal sa among pamilya usa ka bakak. Adunay daghang kwarta nga nadawat ang among mga commander pero sila sila ra ang nagpahimolos. Grabeng kagutom ug kalisod among kahimtang as bukid, labi na kung naay operation ang mga sundalo. Ug ang dili gyud nako madawat, ang pang pahimolos sa mga lumad nga kumunidad sa bukid sa pagsige ug pangayo sa ila ug pagkaon ug ang pagpatay sa mga myembro sa mao ra gihapon nga lumad tungod sa mga pasangil nga tumo-tumo. Karon, nahigmata nako sa kamatuoran sa ilang pagpangilad, ug sa mga tam-is nga pulong para maka-ingganyo sa mga batanon. Dako ang akong pagpasalamat sa mga sundalo sa ilang maayo nga pagdawat sa akoa. Diri sa ilahang kampo nahimamat nako ug usab ang mga kanhing mga NPA sama sa akoa ug ako buhi nga saksi nga sila maayo ang kahimtang ug wala gi abuso sa mga sundalo. Kani nagpamatood nga bakak na pud ang mga propaganda sa among mga NPA commander sa amoa nga kung kami mo surrender sa Army kami kulatahon ug patyon.’
Lt. Col. Jeffrey A Villarosa, Commanding Officer of 30IB said, “As a frontliner in our fight against threats to our national security, it always bring joy to our hearts to welcome former NPA rebels surrender and go back to the folds of our laws. We welcome them because we know that they were once fooled by the propaganda and deception of the CNTs and now they want to give themselves and their families live normal lives once again.”
“Your 30IB Python Troopers, in close tie-up with our local government, other government agencies, civil society organizations, and the peace-loving Surigaonons, will continue to urge the remaining CNT members to lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law. Avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government. Give yourself, your family and our community another chance to peace,” Villarosa added.
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-member-surrenders-reveals-arms-cache-in-surnor/
Soldiers killed in Sulu clash hailed as heroes
From Rappler (Apr 18, 2020): Soldiers killed in Sulu clash hailed as heroes (JC Gotinga)
Friday’s encounter with the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu, was the deadliest battle the military has fought in a long while, says the Philippine Army
ARMY SOLDIERS. In this file photo, Philippine Army troops battle the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao. File photo from the Philippine Army
Friday’s encounter with the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu, was the deadliest battle the military has fought in a long while, says the Philippine Army
ARMY SOLDIERS. In this file photo, Philippine Army troops battle the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao. File photo from the Philippine Army
The national flag was flown at half-staff at military camps across the country on Saturday, April 18, as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) mourned 11 Army soldiers killed in a battle with the Abu Sayyaf terror group in Sulu on Friday, April 17.
It was the most devastating encounter for the military in a long while, Philippine Army spokesperson Colonel Ramon Zagala told Rappler. Skirmishes with armed groups in different parts of the country often cost the lives of a few soldiers, but Friday’s clash in the jungles of Patikul municipality, an Abu Sayyaf turf, had nearly a dozen troops pay the ultimate price.
The roughly 40 Abu Sayyaf members had the strategic advantage in the hourlong firefight. “The enemy had the advantage of familiarity with the terrain, and had dug-in positions when the Army troops on an offensive mission approached their lair,” Zagala said.
“Pursuit operations are ongoing, and the Army’s 11th Infantry Division (11ID) will continue its mission to bring security and stability as a partner for peace in Sulu,” he added.
The executive officer of the Delta Company of the Army’s 21st Infantry Battalion, under the 11ID, and 10 of his troops were killed in the encounter. They were:
2nd Lieutenant Rogelio E. Deligero Jr
Staff Sergeant Jason P. Gazzingan
Corporal John T. Manodam
Corporal Mark Dexter U. Montenegro
Corporal Rasul B. Ao-as
Corporal Ernesto L. Bautista Jr
Private First Class Benson A. Bongguic
Private First Class Jomel N. Pagulayan
Private First Class Premark P. Vallecer
Private Jiydon T. Usman
Corporal Jomar A. Ninalga
At least 14 other soldiers were wounded in the battle. The Army requested not to publish their names to keep their privacy as they recuperate from their injuries.
The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) remains one of the most insidious security threats in the Philippines, especially in the southern region of Mindanao. The group's subleader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan is known to be the leader of the Islamic State or ISIS terror network in the Philippines. Friday's battle involved militants under Sawadjaan and the ASG's top leader, Radullan Sahiron.
Although the ASG members fled the clash site, the military said bloodstains in the area indicated an undetermined number of casualties among them.
The Army and the AFP top brass pledged assistance and full benefits to the bereaved families.
“We offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of our 11 Sulu heroes who gallantly fought to the last breath against Abu Sayaff Group terrorists in Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu,” said Philippine Army chief Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay in a statement.
Although military troops are deployed all over the country to enforce community quarantine measures in response to the coronavirus pandemic, “the fight against terrorism continues,” Gapay added.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/258334-soldiers-killed-sulu-clash-hailed-heroes-april-18-2020
It was the most devastating encounter for the military in a long while, Philippine Army spokesperson Colonel Ramon Zagala told Rappler. Skirmishes with armed groups in different parts of the country often cost the lives of a few soldiers, but Friday’s clash in the jungles of Patikul municipality, an Abu Sayyaf turf, had nearly a dozen troops pay the ultimate price.
The roughly 40 Abu Sayyaf members had the strategic advantage in the hourlong firefight. “The enemy had the advantage of familiarity with the terrain, and had dug-in positions when the Army troops on an offensive mission approached their lair,” Zagala said.
“Pursuit operations are ongoing, and the Army’s 11th Infantry Division (11ID) will continue its mission to bring security and stability as a partner for peace in Sulu,” he added.
The executive officer of the Delta Company of the Army’s 21st Infantry Battalion, under the 11ID, and 10 of his troops were killed in the encounter. They were:
2nd Lieutenant Rogelio E. Deligero Jr
Staff Sergeant Jason P. Gazzingan
Corporal John T. Manodam
Corporal Mark Dexter U. Montenegro
Corporal Rasul B. Ao-as
Corporal Ernesto L. Bautista Jr
Private First Class Benson A. Bongguic
Private First Class Jomel N. Pagulayan
Private First Class Premark P. Vallecer
Private Jiydon T. Usman
Corporal Jomar A. Ninalga
At least 14 other soldiers were wounded in the battle. The Army requested not to publish their names to keep their privacy as they recuperate from their injuries.
The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) remains one of the most insidious security threats in the Philippines, especially in the southern region of Mindanao. The group's subleader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan is known to be the leader of the Islamic State or ISIS terror network in the Philippines. Friday's battle involved militants under Sawadjaan and the ASG's top leader, Radullan Sahiron.
Although the ASG members fled the clash site, the military said bloodstains in the area indicated an undetermined number of casualties among them.
The Army and the AFP top brass pledged assistance and full benefits to the bereaved families.
“We offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of our 11 Sulu heroes who gallantly fought to the last breath against Abu Sayaff Group terrorists in Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu,” said Philippine Army chief Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay in a statement.
Although military troops are deployed all over the country to enforce community quarantine measures in response to the coronavirus pandemic, “the fight against terrorism continues,” Gapay added.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/258334-soldiers-killed-sulu-clash-hailed-heroes-april-18-2020
No extension on ceasefire versus NPA, Army says
From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 18, 2020): No extension on ceasefire versus NPA, Army says (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)
There is no extension of the government ceasefire against the New People’s Army in the Visayas, Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command chief, Lt. Gen. Roberto Ancan, said yesterday.
The government unilateral ceasefire ended on April 15. But the Communist Party of the Philippines extended from April 15 to April 30 its ceasefire declaration, which started March 25.
The CPP issued a statement ordering all NPA units and its people’s militias “to continue to desist and cease from carrying out offensive military actions against the AFP and Philippine National Police, and other paramilitary and armed groups attached to the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).”
The aim of the ceasefire extension, according to the CPP, “is to ensure quick and unimpeded support to all people requiring urgent medical, health and socioeconomic assistance in the face of the public emergency over the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Ancan yesterday said that normal military operations against the NPA armed group have resumed in Visayas after the government unilateral ceasefire ended on April 15.
The AFP recorded attacks made by the NPA against government troopers engaged in the campaign against COVID-19 in Iloilo that claimed the life of an Army soldier, harassment of a military outpost in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, and robbing of COVID-19 relief goods by the NPA in Balangiga, Samar,while the ceasefire was ongoing.
As we perform our duty as frontliners during this trying times, we need also to carry out our mandate of protecting the people from the menace of the CPP-NPA, Capt. Cenon Pancito III, spokesman of the 3rd Infantry Division, said.
Pancito said that they are not extending the ceasefire in order to defend the people of Western and Central Visayas from the deceptive attacks of CPP-NPA, who are always taking advantage of the truce by conducting illegal activities such as recruitment, extortion and other form of atrocities.
As we face this health crisis, we cannot just focus our effort to a single task and let the CPP-NPA take advantage of the situation, he said, adding that they need to do multitasking to protect the people both from the dangerous COVID-19 and the treacherous enemies of the state,
Extending a ceasefire is not a practical decision at this time, Pancito also said.
The only way for us to prevent them from disrupting the effort of the government and the people in fighting COVID-19 pandemic is to resume our offensive military operations, he added
Pancito said that the 3ID have enough forces to deal with the two equally important tasks, of fighting against COVID-19 and the CPP-NPA.
In extending the ceasefire, the CPP said that all revolutionary forces are “ever ready to cooperate with all other forces and elements to achieve this objective.”
But the CPP reminded all NPA units to “maintain strictest secrecy” and not allow themselves to be exposed to AFP attacks.
During the ceasefire period, all NPA units must strictly limit themselves to active defense operations which shall be carried out only in the face of imminent danger and actual armed attacks by the enemy forces, the CPP statement added.
On the other hand, the Northern Negros Alliance of Human Rights Advocates issued a statement accusing the 79th Infantry Battalion, PNP Special Action Force of perpetrating human rights violations in northern Negros, while the Enhanced Community Quarantine is being observed in Negros Occidental.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/April/18/topstory3.htm
The government unilateral ceasefire ended on April 15. But the Communist Party of the Philippines extended from April 15 to April 30 its ceasefire declaration, which started March 25.
The CPP issued a statement ordering all NPA units and its people’s militias “to continue to desist and cease from carrying out offensive military actions against the AFP and Philippine National Police, and other paramilitary and armed groups attached to the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).”
The aim of the ceasefire extension, according to the CPP, “is to ensure quick and unimpeded support to all people requiring urgent medical, health and socioeconomic assistance in the face of the public emergency over the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Ancan yesterday said that normal military operations against the NPA armed group have resumed in Visayas after the government unilateral ceasefire ended on April 15.
The AFP recorded attacks made by the NPA against government troopers engaged in the campaign against COVID-19 in Iloilo that claimed the life of an Army soldier, harassment of a military outpost in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, and robbing of COVID-19 relief goods by the NPA in Balangiga, Samar,while the ceasefire was ongoing.
As we perform our duty as frontliners during this trying times, we need also to carry out our mandate of protecting the people from the menace of the CPP-NPA, Capt. Cenon Pancito III, spokesman of the 3rd Infantry Division, said.
Pancito said that they are not extending the ceasefire in order to defend the people of Western and Central Visayas from the deceptive attacks of CPP-NPA, who are always taking advantage of the truce by conducting illegal activities such as recruitment, extortion and other form of atrocities.
As we face this health crisis, we cannot just focus our effort to a single task and let the CPP-NPA take advantage of the situation, he said, adding that they need to do multitasking to protect the people both from the dangerous COVID-19 and the treacherous enemies of the state,
Extending a ceasefire is not a practical decision at this time, Pancito also said.
The only way for us to prevent them from disrupting the effort of the government and the people in fighting COVID-19 pandemic is to resume our offensive military operations, he added
Pancito said that the 3ID have enough forces to deal with the two equally important tasks, of fighting against COVID-19 and the CPP-NPA.
In extending the ceasefire, the CPP said that all revolutionary forces are “ever ready to cooperate with all other forces and elements to achieve this objective.”
But the CPP reminded all NPA units to “maintain strictest secrecy” and not allow themselves to be exposed to AFP attacks.
During the ceasefire period, all NPA units must strictly limit themselves to active defense operations which shall be carried out only in the face of imminent danger and actual armed attacks by the enemy forces, the CPP statement added.
On the other hand, the Northern Negros Alliance of Human Rights Advocates issued a statement accusing the 79th Infantry Battalion, PNP Special Action Force of perpetrating human rights violations in northern Negros, while the Enhanced Community Quarantine is being observed in Negros Occidental.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/April/18/topstory3.htm
Wounded Sulu soldiers awarded medals, receive financial assistance
From the (Apr 18, 2020): Wounded Sulu soldiers awarded medals, receive financial assistance
SULU – Governor Sakur Tan visited Saturday over a dozen wounded soldiers who clashed with Abu Sayyaf gunmen at a military hospital in the capital town of Jolo and handed them financial assistance, and condoling with security officials and troops for the brutal killings of 11 infantrymen in Sulu’s Patikul town.
Tan, accompanied by Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, and Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, commander of the 11th Infantry Division, met with the soldiers one by one.
Manila has also condemned the atrocities of the Abu Sayyaf. “We condemn in the strongest possible terms the latest incident in Patikul, Sulu, where members of the Abu Sayyaf Group believed to be under ASG leader Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan attacked government troops resulting in a firefight, which left 11 soldiers killed and 14 wounded.”
“The Office of the President expresses its sincerest condolences to the bereaved families left behind by our brave soldiers who fought hard and paid the ultimate sacrifice to secure our community. We honor and pray for the fallen,” said Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque.
It was the second deadly fighting since April 16 where three soldiers were also wounded and that many militants killed, according to Vinluan.
SULU – Governor Sakur Tan visited Saturday over a dozen wounded soldiers who clashed with Abu Sayyaf gunmen at a military hospital in the capital town of Jolo and handed them financial assistance, and condoling with security officials and troops for the brutal killings of 11 infantrymen in Sulu’s Patikul town.
Tan, accompanied by Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, and Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, commander of the 11th Infantry Division, met with the soldiers one by one.
Sulu Governor Sakur Tan hands over financial assistance to all wounded soldiers at a military hospital in Jolo town on Saturday, April 18, 2020.
Vinluan also awarded medals to the wounded soldiers.
Tan has strongly condemned the Friday slayings of the soldiers, calling it barbaric and un-Islamic. “We strongly condemn this violence and the senseless war that has claimed many innocent lives and affected the lives of civilians and the peace and development efforts of our government,” he said.
Fierce fighting broke out in the village of Danag after troops encountered with dozens of militants under Hajan Sawadjaan, one of the most notorious Abu Sayyaf leader blamed by authorities for the spate of attacks and cross-border kidnappings in Malaysia’s state of Sabah.
Credit goes to the owner of this work.
Vinluan also awarded medals to the wounded soldiers.
Tan has strongly condemned the Friday slayings of the soldiers, calling it barbaric and un-Islamic. “We strongly condemn this violence and the senseless war that has claimed many innocent lives and affected the lives of civilians and the peace and development efforts of our government,” he said.
Fierce fighting broke out in the village of Danag after troops encountered with dozens of militants under Hajan Sawadjaan, one of the most notorious Abu Sayyaf leader blamed by authorities for the spate of attacks and cross-border kidnappings in Malaysia’s state of Sabah.
Credit goes to the owner of this work.
Manila has also condemned the atrocities of the Abu Sayyaf. “We condemn in the strongest possible terms the latest incident in Patikul, Sulu, where members of the Abu Sayyaf Group believed to be under ASG leader Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan attacked government troops resulting in a firefight, which left 11 soldiers killed and 14 wounded.”
“The Office of the President expresses its sincerest condolences to the bereaved families left behind by our brave soldiers who fought hard and paid the ultimate sacrifice to secure our community. We honor and pray for the fallen,” said Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque.
It was the second deadly fighting since April 16 where three soldiers were also wounded and that many militants killed, according to Vinluan.
Army photo shows recovered Abu Sayyaf weapons and ammunition.
The fighting erupted amid the coronavirus pandemic and while soldiers were assisting in the government humanitarian and health efforts to control or prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
“The enemies of the State choose no date and occasion. They strike even during this time of great pandemic. But let this serve as a warning to all - our authorities remain ready and prepared to crush the enemies of the government and quell any armed attack amid the existing state of calamity and public health emergency,” Roque said.
Sobejana and the Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay also condemned the killings. “The Western Mindanao Command empathizes with the bereaved families of our fallen heroes who, with their intestinal fortitude, fought hard and braved the encounter against the Abu Sayyaf group in Danag, Patikul, Sulu at 3:05 p.m. (Friday). The Western Mindanao Command’s Joint Task Forces nevertheless sustain their security operations while they take the lead in the strict enforcement of the quarantine,” it said.
Media reports said the soldiers are members of the 21st Infantry Battalion and Scout Ranger, and among the dead was a lieutenant. News website Rappler reported that the soldiers lost seven R4 assault rifles, one grenade launcher and a K3 machine gun, including a radio transceiver to the Abu Sayyaf.
Gruesome photos of the slain soldiers posted on Facebook have since gone viral.
The Philippine Army honored the slain soldiers, calling them “heroes who sacrificed their lives to attain peace and stability in Sulu.”
“The Philippine Army is saddened with the events in Sulu today. While our troops are deployed all over the country supporting the National Effort against the NCOVID Pandemic, the fight against terrorism continues,” Gapay said.
“Today, we offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of our 11 Sulu heroes who gallantly fought to the last breath against Abu Sayyaf terrorists. While it is a sad day for us, their sacrifices will inspire us to strengthen our resolve until we are free from terrorism. This setback will not deter us from performing our duty to serve the Filipino people and secure our land,” he added.
Security forces are battling the terrorist Abu Sayyaf group for the past 2 decades now and despite government efforts to lure them to surrender in exchange for livelihood and financial aid, its members continue to wage a violent campaign in the restive region.
Its leaders have pledged allegiance to ISIS or Islamic State in Iraq and Syria and vowed to put up a caliphate in Mindanao, one of the country’s three main islands largely populated by Christians, although the region was once under the powerful rule of the sultans. (Zamboanga Post)
https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/04/wounded-sulu-soldiers-awarded-medals.html
The fighting erupted amid the coronavirus pandemic and while soldiers were assisting in the government humanitarian and health efforts to control or prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
“The enemies of the State choose no date and occasion. They strike even during this time of great pandemic. But let this serve as a warning to all - our authorities remain ready and prepared to crush the enemies of the government and quell any armed attack amid the existing state of calamity and public health emergency,” Roque said.
Sobejana and the Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay also condemned the killings. “The Western Mindanao Command empathizes with the bereaved families of our fallen heroes who, with their intestinal fortitude, fought hard and braved the encounter against the Abu Sayyaf group in Danag, Patikul, Sulu at 3:05 p.m. (Friday). The Western Mindanao Command’s Joint Task Forces nevertheless sustain their security operations while they take the lead in the strict enforcement of the quarantine,” it said.
Media reports said the soldiers are members of the 21st Infantry Battalion and Scout Ranger, and among the dead was a lieutenant. News website Rappler reported that the soldiers lost seven R4 assault rifles, one grenade launcher and a K3 machine gun, including a radio transceiver to the Abu Sayyaf.
Gruesome photos of the slain soldiers posted on Facebook have since gone viral.
The Philippine Army honored the slain soldiers, calling them “heroes who sacrificed their lives to attain peace and stability in Sulu.”
“The Philippine Army is saddened with the events in Sulu today. While our troops are deployed all over the country supporting the National Effort against the NCOVID Pandemic, the fight against terrorism continues,” Gapay said.
“Today, we offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of our 11 Sulu heroes who gallantly fought to the last breath against Abu Sayyaf terrorists. While it is a sad day for us, their sacrifices will inspire us to strengthen our resolve until we are free from terrorism. This setback will not deter us from performing our duty to serve the Filipino people and secure our land,” he added.
Security forces are battling the terrorist Abu Sayyaf group for the past 2 decades now and despite government efforts to lure them to surrender in exchange for livelihood and financial aid, its members continue to wage a violent campaign in the restive region.
Its leaders have pledged allegiance to ISIS or Islamic State in Iraq and Syria and vowed to put up a caliphate in Mindanao, one of the country’s three main islands largely populated by Christians, although the region was once under the powerful rule of the sultans. (Zamboanga Post)
https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/04/wounded-sulu-soldiers-awarded-medals.html
301st Infantry Brigade troopers capture communist terrorist camp
From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 18, 2020): 301st Infantry Brigade troopers capture communist terrorist camp (By Jemin B. Guillermo)
ILOILO CITY, April 18 -- Army troops from the 61st Infantry Battalion successfully captured the communist terrorist encampment.
In a press release issued by the 301st Infantry “Bayanihan” Brigade, it disclosed that the 61st IB troop had an encounter with approximately 40 members of the communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) while conducting combat operations at Sitio Anoy, Barangay Cabalaunan, Miagao, Iloilo, this morning, April 18.
It noted that the 35-minute firefight resulted in the killing of one terrorist and the apprehension of seven personalities believed to be CNTs, including one 14-year old boy. The terrorists are believed to be members of the Suyak (SDG) Platoon.
Also recovered from the encounter site were one M1 Garand Rifle with live ammunitions, one KG9 sub-machine gun, one cal. 45 pistol with holster, two 2-gauge shotguns with four live ammunitions, one pistolized homemade shotgun, two IEDs, seven backpacks, two bandolier, six NPA sweat shirts, two NPA flags, subversive documents, and medical paraphernalia.
“Prior to this armed engagement, troops received information from concerned citizens that the terrorists have been training fresh recruits of the New People’s Army in preparation for the conduct of more terror acts,” the media release said.
The information added that the CNTs have been planning to harass both civilians and government troops by conducting ambuscades and laying improvised explosive devices targeting the military and police forces.
Meanwhile, Colonel Marion Sison, Commander of the Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade, called on the people of Panay to continue supporting the troops by sharing information on the presence and whereabouts of the CNTs to prevent them from further sowing terror and violence.
“The fight for peace is our shared responsibility. Together we can attain genuine and sustainable peace, and development in Panay Island,” Sison said.
He also lauded the operating troops of the 61IB for the successful combat operation.
Sison likewise made a strong message to those who still refuse to return to the government's fold.
“The 61IB truly showed gallantry and tenacity against a determined enemy. This victory should serve as a warning to the CNTs that the Philippine Army will remain relentless in hunting them down, should they choose to continue this senseless and bloody armed struggle,” he stressed.
The capture of the terrorist encampment is a major blow to the CNT’s recruitment activities and highlights the enemy’s propensity to use minors in the conduct of terroristic acts, both against innocent civilians and government troops, which is a proof of their active exploitation and deception of the youth.
Sison also called on the remaining CNTs to lay down their arms “as the government together with your army is willing to ensure your safety if you choose to come down and live a peaceful life with your families and loved ones.” (JBG/301 Infantry Brigade-PA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1039406
ILOILO CITY, April 18 -- Army troops from the 61st Infantry Battalion successfully captured the communist terrorist encampment.
In a press release issued by the 301st Infantry “Bayanihan” Brigade, it disclosed that the 61st IB troop had an encounter with approximately 40 members of the communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) while conducting combat operations at Sitio Anoy, Barangay Cabalaunan, Miagao, Iloilo, this morning, April 18.
It noted that the 35-minute firefight resulted in the killing of one terrorist and the apprehension of seven personalities believed to be CNTs, including one 14-year old boy. The terrorists are believed to be members of the Suyak (SDG) Platoon.
Also recovered from the encounter site were one M1 Garand Rifle with live ammunitions, one KG9 sub-machine gun, one cal. 45 pistol with holster, two 2-gauge shotguns with four live ammunitions, one pistolized homemade shotgun, two IEDs, seven backpacks, two bandolier, six NPA sweat shirts, two NPA flags, subversive documents, and medical paraphernalia.
“Prior to this armed engagement, troops received information from concerned citizens that the terrorists have been training fresh recruits of the New People’s Army in preparation for the conduct of more terror acts,” the media release said.
The information added that the CNTs have been planning to harass both civilians and government troops by conducting ambuscades and laying improvised explosive devices targeting the military and police forces.
Meanwhile, Colonel Marion Sison, Commander of the Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade, called on the people of Panay to continue supporting the troops by sharing information on the presence and whereabouts of the CNTs to prevent them from further sowing terror and violence.
“The fight for peace is our shared responsibility. Together we can attain genuine and sustainable peace, and development in Panay Island,” Sison said.
He also lauded the operating troops of the 61IB for the successful combat operation.
Sison likewise made a strong message to those who still refuse to return to the government's fold.
“The 61IB truly showed gallantry and tenacity against a determined enemy. This victory should serve as a warning to the CNTs that the Philippine Army will remain relentless in hunting them down, should they choose to continue this senseless and bloody armed struggle,” he stressed.
The capture of the terrorist encampment is a major blow to the CNT’s recruitment activities and highlights the enemy’s propensity to use minors in the conduct of terroristic acts, both against innocent civilians and government troops, which is a proof of their active exploitation and deception of the youth.
Sison also called on the remaining CNTs to lay down their arms “as the government together with your army is willing to ensure your safety if you choose to come down and live a peaceful life with your families and loved ones.” (JBG/301 Infantry Brigade-PA)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1039406
Marines take security roles for Cotabato City, BARMM
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 18, 2020): Marines take security roles for Cotabato City, BARMM (By Edwin Fernandez)
AUGMENTING SECURITY. Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag, 1st Marine Brigade commander (left) inspect one of the quarantine checkpoints of the 5th Marine Battalion Landing Team in Maguindanao on Friday, (April 17, 2020). The Marines expands its area of operation to include Cotabato City and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao regional center as it takes over the role of Joint Task Force Central in securing the city. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)
COTABATO CITY – The Philippine Marines have assumed the role of the military-led Task Force Cotabato in securing Cotabato City and its immediate environs.
Members of the 1st Marine Brigade (Mbde), led by Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag, on Friday, were deployed in the entry and exit points of the city, including its tributaries, said Lt. Col. Edgardo Vilchez Jr, spokesperson of the Army-led Joint Task Force Central (JTFC) securing the Central Mindanao area.
Part of the duties of the Marines is the security of city residents and government facilities of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in the area.
Vilchez, also chief of the 6th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, said a directive from higher headquarters will have part of the 1Mbde taking the lead role in securing the periphery of Cotabato City effective immediately.
He said the area of operation of JTFC, under Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, will be expanded and that the Army’s 5th Special Forces Battalion helping the 300-strong city police force in securing the locality will form part of the expansion.
“This is just realignment of troops, a normal military practice in improving its security performance,” Vilchez said in a radio interview Saturday.
He assured the public that military forces in Central Mindanao under the leadership of Carreon and Armed Forces’ Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana will always uphold human rights and civilian supremacy in their duty to protect the communities.
Vilchez also called on all local government executives to continue working with the Armed Forces for the safety of everyone under its area of jurisdiction.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100251
AUGMENTING SECURITY. Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag, 1st Marine Brigade commander (left) inspect one of the quarantine checkpoints of the 5th Marine Battalion Landing Team in Maguindanao on Friday, (April 17, 2020). The Marines expands its area of operation to include Cotabato City and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao regional center as it takes over the role of Joint Task Force Central in securing the city. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)
COTABATO CITY – The Philippine Marines have assumed the role of the military-led Task Force Cotabato in securing Cotabato City and its immediate environs.
Members of the 1st Marine Brigade (Mbde), led by Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag, on Friday, were deployed in the entry and exit points of the city, including its tributaries, said Lt. Col. Edgardo Vilchez Jr, spokesperson of the Army-led Joint Task Force Central (JTFC) securing the Central Mindanao area.
Part of the duties of the Marines is the security of city residents and government facilities of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in the area.
Vilchez, also chief of the 6th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, said a directive from higher headquarters will have part of the 1Mbde taking the lead role in securing the periphery of Cotabato City effective immediately.
He said the area of operation of JTFC, under Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, will be expanded and that the Army’s 5th Special Forces Battalion helping the 300-strong city police force in securing the locality will form part of the expansion.
“This is just realignment of troops, a normal military practice in improving its security performance,” Vilchez said in a radio interview Saturday.
He assured the public that military forces in Central Mindanao under the leadership of Carreon and Armed Forces’ Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana will always uphold human rights and civilian supremacy in their duty to protect the communities.
Vilchez also called on all local government executives to continue working with the Armed Forces for the safety of everyone under its area of jurisdiction.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100251
11 soldiers killed, 13 wounded in Sulu clash
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 18, 2020): 11 soldiers killed, 13 wounded in Sulu clash (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Government troops from the Joint Task Force Sulu are pursuing the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits following a clash that resulted in the death of 11 soldiers and wounding of 13 others in Sulu, a top military official said Saturday.
Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the death of the soldiers will further motivate the military to eliminate the ASG bandits and make Sulu a peaceful place to live.
Sobejana said government troops are in pursuit of the bandits under ASG leaders Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hadjan Sawadjaan, who figured in an hour-long firefight with the troops around 3:05 p.m. Friday in Sitio Bud Lubong, Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu.
Sobejana was unable to immediately release the identities of the slain and wounded soldiers except to say they belong to the Delta Company of the Army’s 21st Infantry Battalion. One of the fatalities is a junior officer.
Government troops were on combat operation when they clashed with around 40 ASG bandits led by Sahiron and Sawadjaan, he said, adding the bandits fled toward northeast direction upon sensing the arrival of reinforcements.
He said the bandits carted away seven R4 rifles, including one with attached 40-mm grenade launcher, a light machine gun, and a handheld radio transceiver.
The bandits are believed to have suffered casualties as the mortar teams of the Army’s 21st Infantry Battalion and of the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion pounded them with 81-mm mortar rounds while they were fleeing.
“With the determination to ensure the safety and security of the community against the ASG, 11 soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice in an hour-long ferocious gunfight with the terrorist group in Sulu today, April 17,” the Westmincom said in a statement after the clash.
“Medical treatment was promptly provided to the 13 injured soldiers. Combat troops inflicted enemy casualties based on the bloodstains found in the encounter site,” Westmincom said.
Sobejana said the Sulu-based Abu Sayyaf bandits are still holding captives five Indonesian fishermen, who were kidnapped on January 16 off Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia.
PNP mourns soldiers' deaths
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) mourned the death of 11 soldiers who were killed in an encounter with the ASG members.
"The officers, men, and women of the Philippine National Police, under the command of Police General Archie Francisco F. Gamboa, join the Filipino nation in mourning over the loss of 11 of our brothers in arms in the Armed Forces of the Philippines who offered the ultimate sacrifice in an encounter with terrorists in Sulu yesterday, " PNP spokesperson Bernard Banac said in a statement on Saturday.
"They did not die in vain. The cause they are fighting for is the life-long commitment of all men and women in uniform who derive inspiration from the heroism of our fallen brothers to bring on the fight against the enemies of the state," he added.
Banac said the PNP will extend "every possible support and assistance we can give to bring comfort to the orphaned families of our fallen heroes and to provide care for the wounded."
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100250
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Government troops from the Joint Task Force Sulu are pursuing the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits following a clash that resulted in the death of 11 soldiers and wounding of 13 others in Sulu, a top military official said Saturday.
Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the death of the soldiers will further motivate the military to eliminate the ASG bandits and make Sulu a peaceful place to live.
Sobejana said government troops are in pursuit of the bandits under ASG leaders Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hadjan Sawadjaan, who figured in an hour-long firefight with the troops around 3:05 p.m. Friday in Sitio Bud Lubong, Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu.
Sobejana was unable to immediately release the identities of the slain and wounded soldiers except to say they belong to the Delta Company of the Army’s 21st Infantry Battalion. One of the fatalities is a junior officer.
Government troops were on combat operation when they clashed with around 40 ASG bandits led by Sahiron and Sawadjaan, he said, adding the bandits fled toward northeast direction upon sensing the arrival of reinforcements.
He said the bandits carted away seven R4 rifles, including one with attached 40-mm grenade launcher, a light machine gun, and a handheld radio transceiver.
The bandits are believed to have suffered casualties as the mortar teams of the Army’s 21st Infantry Battalion and of the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion pounded them with 81-mm mortar rounds while they were fleeing.
“With the determination to ensure the safety and security of the community against the ASG, 11 soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice in an hour-long ferocious gunfight with the terrorist group in Sulu today, April 17,” the Westmincom said in a statement after the clash.
“Medical treatment was promptly provided to the 13 injured soldiers. Combat troops inflicted enemy casualties based on the bloodstains found in the encounter site,” Westmincom said.
Sobejana said the Sulu-based Abu Sayyaf bandits are still holding captives five Indonesian fishermen, who were kidnapped on January 16 off Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia.
PNP mourns soldiers' deaths
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) mourned the death of 11 soldiers who were killed in an encounter with the ASG members.
"The officers, men, and women of the Philippine National Police, under the command of Police General Archie Francisco F. Gamboa, join the Filipino nation in mourning over the loss of 11 of our brothers in arms in the Armed Forces of the Philippines who offered the ultimate sacrifice in an encounter with terrorists in Sulu yesterday, " PNP spokesperson Bernard Banac said in a statement on Saturday.
"They did not die in vain. The cause they are fighting for is the life-long commitment of all men and women in uniform who derive inspiration from the heroism of our fallen brothers to bring on the fight against the enemies of the state," he added.
Banac said the PNP will extend "every possible support and assistance we can give to bring comfort to the orphaned families of our fallen heroes and to provide care for the wounded."
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100250
Suspected rebel killed, 7 others caught in Iloilo clash
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 18, 2020): Suspected rebel killed, 7 others caught in Iloilo clash (By Gail Momblan)
OPS VS. REBELS. Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, on Saturday (April 18, 2020) said a suspected member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army was killed while seven others were captured in an encounter at Miagao town, Iloilo. The Army nabbed a 14-year-old suspected NPA member as they received complaints that the rebels were using the area to train recruits. (PNA file photo)
ILOILO CITY – A suspected member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) was killed while seven others were captured during the encounter between the rebels and the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61st IB) on Saturday at Miagao town, Iloilo.
The encounter took place at 10:20 a.m. at Sitio Anoy, Cabalaunan village, Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of 61st IB told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
He said the government troops received complaints from the locals that the Suyak Platoon-Komiteng Rehiyon Panay of the CPP-NPA’s Southern Front under Joven Ceralvo is using the area a temporary training ground for their recruits.
“Before we received information that they are conducting massive recruitment and now we have complaints that they are already conducting training,” he said.
The Army launched a combat operation against around 40 members of the CPP-NPA.
Batara said a rebel was killed while seven others, including a 14-year-old boy, were captured.
“We recovered one body count—male, and is still unidentified; and seven captured that are all males believed to be NPA personalities,” he said.
The capture of the teenage boy is proof that the rebels are recruiting minors to their group, he said.
The captured CPP-NPA will be interrogated before they will be turned over to the Philippine National Police.
Recovered from the encounter site included a Garand rifle, a caliber .45 pistol, two 12 gauge shotguns, a homemade shotgun, two improvised explosive devices, seven backpacks, two bandoliers, two NPA flags, medical paraphernalia, and subversive documents.
“They knew that many have surrendered (to the government) and they have taken advantage of our efforts in the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) to conduct their training,” he said.
Batara said the Cabalaunan village, located 14 kilometers away from the town proper, is considered as an influence area of the rebels.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100288
OPS VS. REBELS. Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, on Saturday (April 18, 2020) said a suspected member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army was killed while seven others were captured in an encounter at Miagao town, Iloilo. The Army nabbed a 14-year-old suspected NPA member as they received complaints that the rebels were using the area to train recruits. (PNA file photo)
ILOILO CITY – A suspected member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) was killed while seven others were captured during the encounter between the rebels and the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61st IB) on Saturday at Miagao town, Iloilo.
The encounter took place at 10:20 a.m. at Sitio Anoy, Cabalaunan village, Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of 61st IB told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
He said the government troops received complaints from the locals that the Suyak Platoon-Komiteng Rehiyon Panay of the CPP-NPA’s Southern Front under Joven Ceralvo is using the area a temporary training ground for their recruits.
“Before we received information that they are conducting massive recruitment and now we have complaints that they are already conducting training,” he said.
The Army launched a combat operation against around 40 members of the CPP-NPA.
Batara said a rebel was killed while seven others, including a 14-year-old boy, were captured.
“We recovered one body count—male, and is still unidentified; and seven captured that are all males believed to be NPA personalities,” he said.
The capture of the teenage boy is proof that the rebels are recruiting minors to their group, he said.
The captured CPP-NPA will be interrogated before they will be turned over to the Philippine National Police.
Recovered from the encounter site included a Garand rifle, a caliber .45 pistol, two 12 gauge shotguns, a homemade shotgun, two improvised explosive devices, seven backpacks, two bandoliers, two NPA flags, medical paraphernalia, and subversive documents.
“They knew that many have surrendered (to the government) and they have taken advantage of our efforts in the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) to conduct their training,” he said.
Batara said the Cabalaunan village, located 14 kilometers away from the town proper, is considered as an influence area of the rebels.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100288
Former rebels get food aid in Agusan Norte
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 18, 2020): Former rebels get food aid in Agusan Norte (By Alexander Lopez)
AID TO EX-REBELS. Silver Joy Tejano (left), OIC-chief of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office in Agusan del Norte, leads the distribution of rice and other food supplies to 22 former communist rebels at the headquarters of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, on Friday. Twenty-three other former rebels received similar aid at the headquarters of the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion in Cabadbaran City. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)
BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Former communist rebels and their families, who are affected by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), received food assistance Friday as part of the government's initiative to ease the impact of the 2019 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) crisis.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Agusan del Norte said most of the recipients are former rebels who are staying with their families in various Army camps in the province.
Silver Joy Tejano, PSWDO-Agusan del Norte OIC-chief, told the Philippine News Agency Friday that each of the New People's Army (NPA) surrenderers received a sack of rice and food packs of canned goods and noodles.
At the headquarters of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion in Buenavista town, 22 former NPA fighters received food assistance, while 23 former rebels also received the same aid at the headquarters of the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion in Cabadbaran City.
Tejano said 10 former rebels temporarily living in the headquarters of Police Regional Office-13 in Butuan City also received food assistance.
“The aid will ensure their food supply up to three months,” Tejano said.
1st Lt. Roel Maglalang, 23IB civil-military operations officer, thanked the PSWDO-Agusan del Norte "for the prompt response to our request."
“The movement of our FRs (former rebels), especially in going to markets, is also restricted due to the implementation of ECQs. These supplies will ensure food for their families here,” Maglalang said.
Lt. Col. Francisco Molina Jr., 23IB commander, noted the increase in the number of NPA surrenderers in the province since the start of the year.
“While we are providing security support to our front-liners in the fight against Covid-19, the Army still continues to perform its main task of securing the communities in Agusan del Norte against the terroristic activities of the New People’s Army (NPA),” Molina said.
Recently, seven more NPA combatants have surrendered to 23IB because "they could no longer withstand the hardships they experience, particularly hunger.”
“This support from the PSWDO of Agusan del Norte will help us sustain the needs of our FRs while the livelihood assistance intended for them are still being processed,” Molina said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100272
AID TO EX-REBELS. Silver Joy Tejano (left), OIC-chief of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office in Agusan del Norte, leads the distribution of rice and other food supplies to 22 former communist rebels at the headquarters of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, on Friday. Twenty-three other former rebels received similar aid at the headquarters of the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion in Cabadbaran City. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)
BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Former communist rebels and their families, who are affected by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), received food assistance Friday as part of the government's initiative to ease the impact of the 2019 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) crisis.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Agusan del Norte said most of the recipients are former rebels who are staying with their families in various Army camps in the province.
Silver Joy Tejano, PSWDO-Agusan del Norte OIC-chief, told the Philippine News Agency Friday that each of the New People's Army (NPA) surrenderers received a sack of rice and food packs of canned goods and noodles.
At the headquarters of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion in Buenavista town, 22 former NPA fighters received food assistance, while 23 former rebels also received the same aid at the headquarters of the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion in Cabadbaran City.
Tejano said 10 former rebels temporarily living in the headquarters of Police Regional Office-13 in Butuan City also received food assistance.
“The aid will ensure their food supply up to three months,” Tejano said.
1st Lt. Roel Maglalang, 23IB civil-military operations officer, thanked the PSWDO-Agusan del Norte "for the prompt response to our request."
“The movement of our FRs (former rebels), especially in going to markets, is also restricted due to the implementation of ECQs. These supplies will ensure food for their families here,” Maglalang said.
Lt. Col. Francisco Molina Jr., 23IB commander, noted the increase in the number of NPA surrenderers in the province since the start of the year.
“While we are providing security support to our front-liners in the fight against Covid-19, the Army still continues to perform its main task of securing the communities in Agusan del Norte against the terroristic activities of the New People’s Army (NPA),” Molina said.
Recently, seven more NPA combatants have surrendered to 23IB because "they could no longer withstand the hardships they experience, particularly hunger.”
“This support from the PSWDO of Agusan del Norte will help us sustain the needs of our FRs while the livelihood assistance intended for them are still being processed,” Molina said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100272
Flags in AFP camps at half-mast after death of 11 troops
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 18, 2020): Flags in AFP camps at half-mast after death of 11 troops (By Priam Nepomuceno)
AFP MOURNS 11 SOLDIERS. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a statement on Friday night (April 17, 2020) that all military camps in the country would fly their flags at half-mast. This is in honor of the 11 soldiers who were killed in an encounter with Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Sulu on Friday afternoon. (PNA file photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)
AFP MOURNS 11 SOLDIERS. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a statement on Friday night (April 17, 2020) that all military camps in the country would fly their flags at half-mast. This is in honor of the 11 soldiers who were killed in an encounter with Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Sulu on Friday afternoon. (PNA file photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)
Flags in all military camps across the country will be flown at half-mast in honor of the 11 soldiers who were killed in an encounter with Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Sulu province on Friday afternoon.
"The entire AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) mourns today, 17 April 2020, and our flags in all military camps around the country will be flown at half-mast as 11 Army heroes offered their lives at past 3 p.m. to protect and defend the people of Sulu," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a statement forwarded to reporters on Friday night.
He was referring to the operation of the Delta Company, 21st Infantry Battalion in Sitio Bud Lubong, Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu whose members encountered an estimated 40 Abu Sayyaf Group terrorists led by Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hadjan Sawadjaan.
The firefight lasted for one hour and resulted in the death of 11 soldiers and the wounding of 14 other troopers.
"This pursuit operation followed two major encounters the previous days where our soldiers inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy (killed and wounded) in both armed engagements. High-powered firearms were also seized by our operating units," Arevalo said.
He said the encounter exemplifies the role of the AFP and its personnel in protecting the state and the people against all forms of threat.
"While the entire nation is grappling with (the) Covid-19 (coronavirus disease) pandemic, our troopers are in the forefront as the government’s arm to prevent the spread of the dreaded disease on the one hand while in the other, they are battling this terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group," Arevalo said, adding that operations against the group were ongoing, according to 11th Infantry Division commander, Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan.
Meanwhile, he said AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., has condoled with the families of the fallen soldiers.
"He ensures that all necessary assistance will be extended to their loved ones," Arevalo said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100239
"The entire AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) mourns today, 17 April 2020, and our flags in all military camps around the country will be flown at half-mast as 11 Army heroes offered their lives at past 3 p.m. to protect and defend the people of Sulu," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a statement forwarded to reporters on Friday night.
He was referring to the operation of the Delta Company, 21st Infantry Battalion in Sitio Bud Lubong, Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu whose members encountered an estimated 40 Abu Sayyaf Group terrorists led by Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hadjan Sawadjaan.
The firefight lasted for one hour and resulted in the death of 11 soldiers and the wounding of 14 other troopers.
"This pursuit operation followed two major encounters the previous days where our soldiers inflicted heavy casualties to the enemy (killed and wounded) in both armed engagements. High-powered firearms were also seized by our operating units," Arevalo said.
He said the encounter exemplifies the role of the AFP and its personnel in protecting the state and the people against all forms of threat.
"While the entire nation is grappling with (the) Covid-19 (coronavirus disease) pandemic, our troopers are in the forefront as the government’s arm to prevent the spread of the dreaded disease on the one hand while in the other, they are battling this terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group," Arevalo said, adding that operations against the group were ongoing, according to 11th Infantry Division commander, Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan.
Meanwhile, he said AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., has condoled with the families of the fallen soldiers.
"He ensures that all necessary assistance will be extended to their loved ones," Arevalo said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100239
Palace condemns ASG attack vs. soldiers in Sulu
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 18, 2020): Palace condemns ASG attack vs. soldiers in Sulu (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque
Sawadjaan is reportedly acting as emir of the Islamic State in the Philippines.
Roque offered the Palace’s condolences to the families of the slain soldiers.
“The Office of the President expresses its sincerest condolences to the bereaved families left behind by our brave soldiers who fought hard and paid the ultimate sacrifice to secure our community. We honor and pray for the fallen,” he said.
Roque said he was saddened that the encounter happened amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak in the country.
Despite this, he ensured that the government is ready to stop terror attacks while the country is fighting Covid-19.
“Let this serve as a warning to all: Our authorities remain ready and prepared to crush the enemies of the government and quell any armed attack amid the existing state of calamity and public health emergency,” Roque said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100240
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque
Malacañang on Saturday denounced the Abu Sayyaf Group’s (ASG) latest attack in Patikul town in Sulu province that killed at least 11 soldiers and wounded 14 others.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque lamented that the enemies of the state “choose no date and occasion” in attacking government troops.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the latest incident in Patikul, Sulu,” Roque said in a statement.
Eleven soldiers were killed while 14 others were wounded in a firefight between government forces and ASG bandits in Danag village in Patikul, Sulu on Friday afternoon.
It was the government troops' second encounter with ASG members following the April 16 confrontation that wounded three soldiers.
Roque said the bandits who attacked the soldiers on Friday were believed to be under ASG leaders Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hadjan Sawadjaan.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque lamented that the enemies of the state “choose no date and occasion” in attacking government troops.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the latest incident in Patikul, Sulu,” Roque said in a statement.
Eleven soldiers were killed while 14 others were wounded in a firefight between government forces and ASG bandits in Danag village in Patikul, Sulu on Friday afternoon.
It was the government troops' second encounter with ASG members following the April 16 confrontation that wounded three soldiers.
Roque said the bandits who attacked the soldiers on Friday were believed to be under ASG leaders Radullan Sahiron and Hatib Hadjan Sawadjaan.
Sawadjaan is reportedly acting as emir of the Islamic State in the Philippines.
Roque offered the Palace’s condolences to the families of the slain soldiers.
“The Office of the President expresses its sincerest condolences to the bereaved families left behind by our brave soldiers who fought hard and paid the ultimate sacrifice to secure our community. We honor and pray for the fallen,” he said.
Roque said he was saddened that the encounter happened amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak in the country.
Despite this, he ensured that the government is ready to stop terror attacks while the country is fighting Covid-19.
“Let this serve as a warning to all: Our authorities remain ready and prepared to crush the enemies of the government and quell any armed attack amid the existing state of calamity and public health emergency,” Roque said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100240