Army discovers CNT arms cache, yield four high powered firearms

By JONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (Aug. 28, 2019) – After the two separate encounters between the Joint Army/PNP and Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) in Ozamis city on Sunday, the Army’s 10th Infantry (STEADY...ON) Battalion, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, discovered a CNT’s arms cache with four (4) high powered firearms in Brgy Pelukuban, Tambulig, Zamboanga del Sur 8:00 a.m. Tuesay, August 27, 2019.

“The valuable information from the residents in the area on the whereabouts of the CNT arms cache led to the successful discovery of these four high powered firearms,” said Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson, 10th Infantry Battalion commander.  

The arms cache were consists of two (2) M16 and two (2) M14 assault rifles together with eight (8) empty magazines of M14.

On Sunday, a Guerilla Front Committee secretary of the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was killed and seven ranking members were apprehended during the joint law enforcement operation of the 10IB and the PNP of Misamis Occidental.

Recovered during the encounter were one M16 assault rifle, four caliber .45 pistols, seven hand grenades, three motorcycles improvised explosive components, extortion money worth 50 thousand pesos and foodstuffs.

“This is another big blow to the CNTs of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee. The residents of the communities, whom they’ve terrorized are now against them and now supportive to our troops”, said Col. Leonel Nicolas, commander of 102nd Infantry (IGSOON) Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over Zamboanga del Sur.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, commended the efforts of the troops and the brave residents who reported the location of CNT’s arms cache.

“Peace and security is a shared responsibility. We recognized the bold move of the residents who choose to seek serenity in their community despite their dark experience with the CNTs”, Ancan said.

“We encourage our fellowmen, stakeholders, local government units and government agencies in our area of responsibility to report any threat groups who continue to intimidate or terrorize the communities. Rest assured that your Tabak troopers will be more motivated in fulfilling our mandate of ensuring the peace, security and development in Zamboanga Peninsula, Misamis Occidental and Lanao Provinces,” Ancan concluded.(With DPAO PR and Photos)

Army, Armed Group Clash in Lanao, recovered high-powered firearms

By JONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (Aug. 18, 2019) – Army’s 5th Mechanized Battalion, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade clashed against 20 members of an armed group in Brgy Karkum, Sapad town in the neighboring province of Lanao del Norte at 9:50am Saturday, August 17, 2019, military official disclosed.

“Our troops were able to out-maneuver the armed group even if they were in a well-fortified position,” according to 5th Mechanized Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Rolando Orengo.

Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief Capt. Clint Antipala said the firefight lasted to 35-minute that made the enemy scampered that led into the recovery one M14, one M16, two Garrand rifles; one rifle grenade; magazines and ammunitions.

No government forces were hurt while undetermined number of enemy casualties based on the traces of bloodstains in their withdrawal route, Antipala added.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Ezra James Enriquez, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander who has operational jurisdiction over Lanao del Norte urged the wounded armed elements to surrender for them to be given proper medical treatment and assured them of their safety and security.

Enriquez also urged the people to cooperate and report to proper authorities if there are presence of armed groups in their communities.

For his part, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, lauded the troops for the successful encounter and the recovery of firearms.

“I urge everyone to continue our efforts in pursuing lasting peace not just for Mindanao but for the whole country. Let us conquer the challenges ahead of us and step up the momentum in sustaining our gains for our common aspiration”, said Ancan. (With DPAO PR and photos)

‘Unity bridges gap’- WestMinCom chief during Eid al Adha celeb

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PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 16, 2019) - Muslims and Christians were urged by Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command, to unite for peace during the celebration of Brigada Hariraya with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and a religious organization in this city on August 15, military official disloced.

        “Let us help each other, encourage one another, and learn from each other towards building the unshakable foundation for a culture of peace,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

        Maj. Arvin G, Encinas, Command Public Infornation Office Chief said that the WestMinCom tapped the NCMF and the Erth-ul Mustafa Organization, a Muslim religious group, to celebrate the Eid al Adha with the Ulama and organic personnel of the command through the launching of Brigada Hariraya at La Solidaridad Complex in Camp Navarro, Calarian at 9am yesterday.

        “We came to the Philippines not to get anything from the Filipinos but to give back,” said Sheik Mohammed Imran Bin Anguillia, a member of the Erth-ul Mustafa Organization based in Singapore. “We are very proud to have the AFP and other government officials in realizing this message of peace that was passed down by Prophet Muhammad.”

        Lt. Gen. Sobejana thanked the NCMF and the Erth-Ul Mustafa for this joint celebration of the Eid al Adha.

        NCMF Sama Bangingui Commissioner Yusof Morales, students from Al Makhdumin Islamic Center, and administrators of the Filipino-Turkish Tolerance High School also graced the said event. (With CPIO PR and Photos)

WestMinCom settles 40-year clan war in Marawi

By JONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY (Aug.16, 2019) - Military and local officials helped end a 40-year clan war in Marawi City on August 14, military official said.

        Maj. Arvin Encinas, WesMinCom spokesperson disclosed that the decades-long dispute between the Baraontong, Macud, Rangeris, and Magandia families and the Ditopor and Faisal Lumamba families was fueled by political rivalry and land dispute.

        The parties yielded two M16 rifles, magazines, and ammunition to military troops. They also signed the agreement “Kapasadan” and pledge to the Qur’an to show their sincerity in ending the clan war, according to Lt. Col. Edgar Allan Villanueva, 49th Infantry Battalion Commander.

        Masiu municipal Mayor Nasser Pangandaman and Mayor Lampa Pandi of Poona Bayabao, who also facilitated the end of dispute, thanked the troops who stood as the mediator of the warring clans.

        “We are all Filipinos and brothers in blood. We must unite and not allow our younger generations to inherit the grudges and the rages we had in our past,” Brig. Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr., 103rd Infantry Brigade Commander also said,

        The said Rido settlement was held at the 103rd Inf Bde headquarters in Marawi City.

        “If we resolve conflicts between warring clans, then we make strides in ending hostilities for our peace and security goals in Mindanao. That is why we are doing all that we can do to pacify family and political feuds and demilitarize organized groups to end armed struggles in the operational area,’’ Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command also said.

        “The military bridges grassroots negotiations and reconciliations in the hope that this will advance our campaign for stability in the regions,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana explained. (With CPIO PR and Photos)

Army's 53IB Celebrates 17th Reactivation Anniversary

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PAGADIAN CITY, Zambo. del Sur (Aug. 16, 2019) - Army's 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion celebrated its 17th Reactivation Anniversary Friday, August 16,2019, at their headquarters in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur, military official disclosed.

Capt. Clicnt Antipala, Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) Chief said that the 53rd Infantry Battalion was originally activated on 01 January 1985 as an organic Battalion of the 4th Infantry (DIAMOND) Division.

However Capt. Antipala explained that with the force reduction scheme and the streamlining of the Phillippine Army during the Ramos Presidency, the battalion was deactivated on Febraury 14, 1992.

Antipala added that due to the volatile security situation in the area of the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division in Western Mindanao area, the unit was rectivated on May 1, 2002, after ten years of dormancy.

Lt. Col. Marlowe Patria, the current Battalion Commander, during his speech acknowledged the achievements of the previous commanders and the stakeholders who supported the unit.

The anniversary was also celebrated by  awarding of military and civilian stakeholders who greatly contributed  the unit in accomplishing its  mission.

Hon. Victor Yu, Governor of Zamboanga del Sur and one of the awardee, during his message thanked the unit for their efforts in protecting and serving the constituents of Zamboanga del Sur.

"Rest assured that the local government of Zamboanga del Sur will support 53IB in any endeavor in order to sustain peace and security of the province", said Yu.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Roberto T Ancan, Commander of 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, congratulated 53IB for the reactivation anniversary and for rendering selfless service to the Filipino nation and the people.

"You have shown your innovativeness and distinction in all your efforts in making your area of operations peaceful", said Ancan.

"Let us continue to support the objectives of our government and of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, work hand-in-hand with encompassing loyal service to the over-all achievement of peace and progress of our nation", Ancan concluded. (With DPAO PR and Photos)

54th Engineer Brigade celebrates its 28th anniversary

By JONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 12, 2019) - Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command, graced the 28th anniversary celebration of the 54th Engineer Brigade in this city Monday, August 12.

        Lt. Gen Sobejana lauded the army engineers for the brigade’s feats that contributed to the mission accomplishment of WestMinCom, especially in aiding the rehabilitation of Marawi City.

        “You have been instrumental in the completion of several infrastructure projects within conflict-affected areas and geographically disadvantaged areas,” he said.

        “Through effective stakeholder engagement, you have done not only your share but exceed what was expected of you,” he added.

        The WestMinCom chief led the inauguration of a mosque inside the 54th EBde’s headquarters in Cabatangan, this city. (With PIO Press release and photos)

3 killed, 1 injured in Sayyaf attack amid Eid’l Adha celeb

By JONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 13, 2019) - As the Muslim community celebrates Eid’l Adha, or the feast of sacrifice, the Abu Sayyaf Group faithlessly killed 3 and injured 1 in Barangay Kagay, Talipao, Sulu at 8:45am Monday, August 12, 2019, WesMinCom official disclosed.

Maj. Arvin G. Ancinas, WesMinCom spokesperson said that while the government troops traversing the Patikul-Talipao road onboard a motorcycle, two government troopers (1 army from the 2nd Special Forces Battalion and 1 Cafgu Active Auxillary), were fired upon by an undetermined number of Abu Sayyaf that resulted in their instantaneous death.

The incident further resulted in the wounding of 2 innocent children, ages 2 and 11, who were rushed to the Integrated Provincial Health Office for immediate medical attention. However, due to the severity of injury incurred, the 2-year-old child passed away at 12:56pm while the 11-year-old student of Barangay Kagay Elementary School is still in an unstable condition as of this report, Maj. Ancinas reported.

The Joint Task Force Sulu immediately dispatched troops to assist the family of the innocent children.

“We are deeply saddened by this very unfortunate incident that killed two of our valiant personnel and an innocent child,” said Major General Corleto Vinluan, Jr., the JTF Sulu Commander.

“We assure the families and friends of the victims that the JTF Sulu will do our best to ensure that the perpetrators of this treacherous act will be brought to justice. This blatant disregard for the spirit of Islamic festivities is a clear disrespect of the Islam teachings. We appeal to the entire Tausug Community not to succumb to the ASG’s desperate move of sowing fear among our people. Hence, I urge the peace-loving Tausug people to strongly condemn this un-Islamic and treacherous act of the ASG,” Vinluan added.

 Meanwhile, the relatives of the victims and the Suluanos community expressed their willingness to assist the law enforcers in tracking down the ASG and signified their commitment to hunt down ASG members entering their communities.

“We deeply condemn this very deceitful act of the Abu Sayyaf, who do not in any way represent the Islamic way of living,” Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, WestMinCom Commander said.

“We would like to extend our sympathy to the bereaved families of the victims of the Sayyafs inhumane act. Rest assured all sorts of assistance will be provided as our simple way of commisseration,” Lt. Gen Sobejana added. (With PIO Press release and photo)

“House of Peace” inaugurated in Basilan

By JONG CADION

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Hpuse of Peace

        PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 9, 2019) - After four months of construction, a Baithussalam was finally inaugurated and formally opened at the headquarters of the 4th Special Forces Battalion in Cabunbata, Isabela City, Basilan on August 8, 2019, WesMinCom official said.

        The Baithussalam, which means “House of Peace” in Yakan dialect, was built through the collaborative efforts of the defunct regional government of ARMM led by Mujiv Hataman, the AFP’s Joint Task Force Basilan led by Brigadier General Fernando Reyeg, and Balay Mindanao Foundation, Inc. (a peace and development foundation that aids in the Program Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) of the government), Maj. Arvin G. Encinas , WesMinCom spokesperson disclosed.

        Maj. Encinas explained that the facility will serve as the center for the conduct of the PAVE for peace programs, such as training, reformation, and development, of all rebel returnees in the province of Basilan who blindly fought for their ideology but finally decided to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law.

        Present were Basilan’s Lone District Congressman Hataman, Governor Jim Hataman-Salliman, BGen Reyeg, and the ASG rebel returnees.

        A short dialogue to the returnees followed after the inauguration whereby Cong. Hataman, Gov. Salliman, and BGen Reyeg gave their statements regarding the recent operation of the PNP-SAF in Hadji Mohammad Adjul that resulted in the killing of two former ASG members.

        BGen Reyeg expressed his sympathy for the demise of their comrades and sought for their understanding on the incident.

        “We encourage everyone to give your full trust and confidence to the Armed Forces and to the PAVE program of the government,” Reyeg said.

        Food packs and financial assistance were given to 207 rebel returnees during the ceremony.

        “I personally believe that our remarkable accomplishments in the campaign against radicalism and violent extremism should not only be attributed to the Armed Forces but to the local government units and the populace as well,” Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, Commander WestMinCom said. (With WesMinCom PIO press release and photos)

4 Communist NPA Surrender, Yields Arms Cache

By JONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY, ZDS (Aug. 9, 2019) – Four Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) surrendered and yielded arms cache to Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion in Titay,  Zamboanga Sibugay Province, Thursday, August 8, 2019, Tabak official disclosed

Capt. Clint Antipala, Division Public Affairs Office Chief said that two of the surrenderees were  amazons, one of which is a team leader, while the other one is a medic.

According to Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo the surrenderees immediately revealed the location of the arms cache that consists one M14, one AK-47, one Carbine rifle, one calibre 38 revolver.

WestMinCom kicks off sports fest in Zambo City

By Bong Cadion

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            PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 8, 2019) - Military units and offices joined the opening of Western Mindanao Command’s month-long sports festival in Calarian, Zamboanga City started on August 7, WesMinCom Official disclosed.

             Mai. Arvin G. Encinas, WesMinCom spokesperson said that clad in their sportswear, army, navy, marine, air force, coast guard, and organic personnel of WestMinCom paraded through Camp Navarro and participated in the series of fun games held on Wednesday afternoon.

             “I would like to urge everyone to keep the spirit of sportsmanship burning. This is one way of showing your physical prowess to your colleagues,” said WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, who led the kickoff ceremony.

            Participants included personnel of Naval Forces Western Mindanao; Tactical Operations Command; Combat Support Service Brigade; 5th Communications, Electronics and Information Systems Group; Philippine Coast Guard; and 4th Civil Relations Group, Civil Relations Service, Armed Forces of the Philippines.

            Among the activities held were the 2km relay, 3.2 squad run, “hiluhin mo” ako relay, and Zumba color party.

            The month-long sports festival is part of WestMinCom’s series of activities in line with its 13th anniversary celebration. (With CPIO press release and photos)

Sobejana to troops: ‘Develop competency, win peace’

ByJONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY (August 6, 2019) - “Let us continue to develop the competencies required on us, not only in war fighting, but also in operations other than war for the sake of peace in Mindanao,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command, during his visit to military troops in Tawi-Tawi on August 6.

        Sobejana urged Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi troops to maintain their resolve by strengthening interagency and multi-sector cooperation to bridge peace in the operational area.

         “We don’t win wars because we do not want one. We should win the peace, and, in winning the peace, we don’t need weapons,” he added.

        The WestMinCom chief encouraged ground commanders to look after the welfare of their personnel while they work to accomplish their mission.

        “I had several gunshot wounds, and I turned those wounds into wisdom rather than anger. So, for those who were wounded, I would like you to embrace that idea,” he said, relating his experience in Basilan.

        He also vowed to address issues on maritime domain security through a diplomatic approach.

        Brig. Gen. Camilo Balutan, JTF Tawi-Tawi Commander, welcomed Lt. Gen. Sobejana and his staff in Sanga-Sanga, Bongao on Tuesday.

        The WestMinCom commander also received security updates from the ground forces at the Maritime Coordinating Center. (With WesMinCom PIO Press release and photos)

6 rebels yield as Zambo del Sur condemns CNT

By JONG CADION

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PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 7, 2019) - Six more communist rebels surrendered on August 2 to the military in Zamboanga del Sur, weeks after the province declared the Communist NPA Terrorist Group as persona non grata, WesMinCom official disclosed.

         “They were led by Ka Diego, who operated in the hinterlands of Barangay Lison Valley and has been with the communist group for three years. The rest have been members of the group for at least three months,” said Lt. Col. Marlowe Patria, 53rd Infantry Battalion Commander.

        The rebels also yielded four handguns and ammunition.

        They also pledged their sincerity before Zamboanga del Sur Governor Victor Yu, Congresswoman 1st District Divina Grace Yu, Congressman 2nd District Leonardo Babasa, and Board Member John Regala.

        “Insurgency is one factor that deters the development of the province. We need peace, and that is why I am happy to see them (former rebels). Later, they will realize that our government is looking after their welfare, especially that President Duterte wants to eradicate insurgency,” said Yu.

         Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan, Jr., 102nd Infantry Brigade Commander, said, “We are gaining grounds, and our relentless military operation in the province pressured rebels to surrender.”

        On July 18, local leaders in Zamboanga del Sur issued Resolution No. 035-2019, declaring the CNT as persona non-grata. The provincial government further vowed to support security forces in their campaign “to deter any acts of terrorism and insurgency in the province.”

        “More rebels are now contemplating to lay down their arms in light of the government’s commitment and the community’s active involvement in peaceful mechanisms to end local communist armed conflict in the area,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command.

           

“Hitherto, we work hand in hand with our partners and sustain our focused military operations against communist rebels in Mindanao,” he added. (With WesMinCom PIO press release and photos)

1ID Host Squad Snipers Training

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PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 7, 2019) – A total of 225 soldiers joins the Squad Snipers Training Class 3 hosted by the Army’s Premier Infantry (TABAK) Division, facilitated by the Mobile Training Team, Marksmanship Training School, Training and Doctrine Command yesterday, August 6, 2019 at the  Tabak headquarter in Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboangadel Sur. 

Capt. Clint Antipala, Division Public Affairs Officee Chief disclosed that at least two hundred seventy five participants from different Infantry Division of Philippine Army will endure the six-weeks course designed to develop the fighting capability particularly in shooting  ability.

The training also aims to enhance the participant’s knowledge, skills, attitude and confidence in delivering shots using the standard issued assault rifle R4A3, Maj. Antipala said.

Army’s 1st Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, encouraged the participants to take advantage of the training, learn and develop their skills in shooting and remember the core competency, war fighting.

“We aimed in making our Army equipped, modernized, highly disciplined and motivated that has established a respectable image and capable of addressing all internal and external security threats”, said Ancan.

“Bear in mind that many people sleep peacefully at night because there are men stand ready to protect them and that is our sworn oath”, Ancan added.

“Be technically and tactically proficient. Apply what you have learned in the training. Hit the armed enemy who continue to sow terror to our communities ”, Ancan concluded. (With DPAO press release and photos)

Zambosur administrator reacquaints public on ‘No Balance Billing’ policy

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PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 6, 2019) – Provincial Administrator Joefe Suzon reinforms the public on the “No Balance Billing” policy adopted by the Zamboanga del Sur Medical Center in consonance with the universal health care program.

The No Balance Billing (NBB) policy enables the vulnerable sectors of the program such as the poor and the elderly to pay no more in excess of their PhilHealth coverage when confined in government facilities.

Popularly known as “Walang Dagdag Bayad”, the NBB sets as a condition that no direct medical expense shall be exacted from the patient for the duration of the confinement, which in effect makes treatment and care entirely free for the beneficiaries.

21 Communist Terrorist Supporters, Local Terrorist Group Surrender; Clan War Settled in Lanao Sur

By BONG CADION
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PAGADIAN CITY (Aug. 4, 2019) – Twenty-one Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) supporters, and four Local Terrorist Group (LTG) members surrendered to Army’s 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade in Brgy Sabala Bantayao, Lumba Bayabao, Lanao del Sur. 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 2, 2019.

According to Brig. Gen. Romeo S Brawner, Commander of the 103rd, “One of the supporters of the CTG was a minor who surrendered to Lt. Col. Edgar Allan Villanueva, 49th Infantry Battalion Commander”.

“Two of the surrendered LTGs were involved in the attack of Butig town in the year 2016”, added Brawner. 

The surrendrees yielded one rocket propelled grenade, one M1 Carbine rifle, one 1911A1 cal.45 pistol, two cal.38 revolvers and ammunitions.

The surrender was a result of the joint effort with the local government unit of Lumba Bayabao headed by Mayor Mahar Dagalangit and the PNP of the said municipality.

The returnees pledged their allegiance to the constitution and likewise for the CNT surrenderees, they denounced the CTG.

Afterwards, the local government of Lumba Bayabao declared the CTG as persona non grata. The declaration made their municipality in the province of Lanao del Sur the first to assert such act. 

CLAN WAR SETTELED:

Warring families also settled their dispute during the event with the Bantak, Dimaporo, and Linga families affixing their signatures in a written pledge which formalized their settlement.

As a token of their commitment an improvised cal.50 rifle (Improvised Barrett) was surrendered during the event. Tugaya Municipal Mayor Alfattah Norol Pacalna also assisted in the settlement and was present during the settlement signing ceremony.

CTG PRESSURED:

Recently, on July 28, troops from the 103rd Infantry Brigade encountered with the CTGs, who intruded into the town of Lumba Bayabao in the attempt of establishing a foothold in the area and to elude military operations in Bukidnon.

“The relentless offensive of the troops pressured the enemy forces to flee and this prompted their supporters to surrender. The said supporters revealed that they were obliged to support the CTGs in their area due to the fear that they will be hurt or killed if they refuse to support the CTGs”, said Brawner.

“We will assist the surrenderees to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. Likewise, separate integration program for the LTGs of Lanao”, Brawner concluded.

For his part, Maj. Gen. Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) commander, lauded the local government unit of Lanao del Sur on the successful surrender of CTGs and LTGs and the declaration of the CTG as Persona Non Grata.

“Your 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, in collaboration with the LGUs and other stakeholders, remains steadfast in its commitment to attain just and lasting peace in our area of operation thru our campaign against terrorist groups and loose firearms,” said Ancan.

“Likewise, we thank the local government and other stakeholders for their continued trust and support to our troops in contributing peace and development in the whole province of Lanao del Sur,” Ancan added. (With DPAO press release and photos)