Filipino Peacekeepers hold their ground in Golan Heights

Please click below to link related article:
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/aug/28/islamic-state-kills-150-captured-troops-syria-activists?CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – At about 10 am 28 August 2014 (Syria Time), Syrian Anti Government Armed Elements (AGAE) occupied the Fijian positions of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights and demanded that they surrender their firearms. However, upon surrendering their firearms, the 43 Fijian Peacekeepers were taken hostage, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Official said.

AFP Public Affairs Office Chief LTC Ramon P. Sagala in his press statement Friday said that later the AGAEs surrounded the Philippine contingent’s encampments with Fijian hostages in tow and demanded that the Filipino troops surrender their firearms.

Sagala said the Philippine peacekeepers held their ground and demonstrated their resolve to defend their positions.

Sagala added that the Filipino peacemaker did not surrender their firearms as they may in turn be held hostage themselves.

This resulted in a stand-off which is still the prevailing situation at this time as UN officials try to peacefully resolve the situation, Sagala disclosed.

As of press time the Philippine government and the United Nations are in close coordination and are working together to ensure the safety and security of our troops, he said.