Simultaneous attacks by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) on army detachments in Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat province hours before dawn on Saturday resulted in the death of one soldier and the injury of three others.
BIFF gunmen launched simultaneous attacks on the Kulasi detachment in Barangay Kulasi, Pendatun town, Maguinando, and the Sumilalao detachment in Sitio Sumilalao, Barangay Katiku, President Quirino town, Sultan Kudarat at approximately 1 am, January 03, according to a report by Army 6th Infantry Division (6ID) public affairs officer, Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay.
Petinglay also recounted that one soldier from the Katiku Detachment perished in the skirmish, while three others were injured; even as she noted that “troops from the said detachments immediately returned fire to enemy positions. After an hour of firefight, enemy withdrew from the area.”
The three wounded soldiers were taken to a hospital in the vicinity for treatment. The identities of all four soldiers were not released, as their families had yet to be notified of the incident.
Petinglay lamented that the attacks are proof the BIFF – an MILF breakaway armed rebel group – will continue to mar the peace process between government and Muslim factions.
“The incident manifests that the BIFF will continually be as potent spoiler to peace in Central Mindanao. The 6th Infantry Division in coordination with the Philippine National Police will continue to work proactively in order to preempt plans of the lawless group which may cause disorder to the peaceful and developing communities of the region,” Petinglay said.
Meanwhile, officials of the 6th Infantry Division have urged members of the community to be watchful and exercise vigilance in reporting any suspected movements of the BIFF.