Army to Commit More Assets in Anti-Terror Ops

The Philippine Army (PA) has vowed to commit more of its resources in the ongoing anti-terrorism campaign in Sulu, an official said Sunday.

Five members of the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion were killed and 18 others were wounded in an encounter with an estimated 150 Abu Sayyaf terrorists, led by Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, last Feb. 2 in Sitio Sungkog, Barangay Kabbon, Takas, Patikul, Sulu.

“The entire Army also praised the valiant effort of the soldiers, for their selfless service and heroism in the name of peace. Their sacrifices will not be in vain as we continue to extinguish the flames of terrorism to ensure the safety and protection of the people and bring the desired normalcy in Sulu,” PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva said in a statement.

Three Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed and 15 were wounded in the one and a half hour firefight.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte ordered government security forces to “destroy” the terrorist group following the twin bombings in Jolo, Sulu that claimed the life of 22 persons and wounded 100 others last January 27.

“We would like to remind everyone that terrorism is real and remains a clear and present danger. Hence, we urge everybody to help and join in our effort to address this phenomenal threat,” Villanueva said. (PNA)