Updates on the military operations against the BIFF in Central Mindanao

By JONG D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (July 6, 2018) - On day 5 of the focused military operations against the BIFF in Central Mindanao, the troops of the 2^nd Mechanized Battalion were fired upon by more or less 10 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters under Karialan group while they were conducting zoning operation at Dapiawan Elementary School, Barangay Dapiawan, DSA, Maguindandao at 6:55am this morning. The conduct of zoning operation was coordinated with the Local Chief Executive of DSA, WesMinCom Official disclosed.

LTC Gerry M. Besana, WesMinCom spokesperson said that the troops immediately established their defensive position and returned fires. 60mm mortar fires were also delivered.

As of press time, firefight continues. “We are gaining grounds and so we are taking advantage of it,” BGen Sobejana also said.

Since the 1^st day of the intensified operations conducted by the troops under the JTF Central led by Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana in the different areas in Central Mindanao, a total of 13 killed and undetermined number of wounded enemies has been reported while on the government side 14 were wounded and 2 were killed during encounters, LTC Besana added.

He said that among the slain enemies is Commander Marrox, the BIFF Brigade Commander of the Karialan Faction. He was a known bomber and one of the prime suspects with warrant of arrest in the Mamasapano clash which resulted to the death of the SAF 44. Marrox spearheaded the ambush to the troops of the 40th Infantry Battalion a year ago. He led in the atrocities in Rajah Buayan and operated in SPMS box and adjacent municipalities. His followers include escapees during the North Cotabato jail break.

“Our Civil Military Operations group isdispatched to assist the populace in all their necessities,” said WestMinCom Chief, LtGen Arnel Dela Vega.

“Amidst this chaotic environment they are in now, we assure that we will not compromise the safety of the people during this campaign against the terror group,” WestMinCom Chief added.