BIFF detonates 2 IEDs as 9 members surrender

CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao: Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) believed to be owned by Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) exploded in separate locations in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Friday.

The explosions happened as nine BIFF members surrendered to security forces in General Salipada K. Pendatun, also in Maguindanao, on the same day.

Maj. John Arvin Encinas, spokesman for the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) on Saturday said the first explosion happened at about 8:40 a.m., some 400 meters away from the troops of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion who visited Barangay Poblacion to conduct an activity for the community.

Encinas said that when the troops were about to respond to the blast site, another IED exploded about 100 meters away, 15 minutes after the first explosion.

The troops immediately secured the blast sites and conducted road clearing to secure motorists passing along the highway as the 32nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team (32EOD) conducted safety procedures and assessment.

The 32EOD found that the first IED was made of 81mm unexploded mortar ordnance while the second was made of black powder placed in a can.

Initial investigation and reports from civilians in the area pointed to Samad Simpal, a BIFF commander, as perpetrator of the twin explosions.

“The BIFF’s recent IED attacks are manifestations of their being desperate and weak already. They could no longer fight face to face with the government forces that secure the Filipino people,” said Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6ID commander.

Sobejana also said that Simpal was responsible for the series of harassments of military troops and detachments.

Meanwhile, nine BIFF members, including a commander, surrendered in General Salipada K. Pendatun town after their families convinced them to return to the fold of law.

They surrendered to Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion, with a certain commander Banog who arranged a meetingto formalize their surrender.

“Commander Banog said his family members were instrumental in convincing him to finally surface in the name of peace,” Cabunoc said.

The BIFF members handed over two .50- caliber sniper rifles, three anti- tank rocket launchers, two rifles and two grenade launchers.

A total of 39 BIFF militants have already surrendered to the 6th ID since April 2018.