Teodoro lauds AFP operations vs terrorists

DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Sunday, February 25, commended the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its efforts in inflicting setbacks on the terrorist DawlahIslamiya Maute Group and the New People’s Army (NPA) in separate encounters in Lanao del Norte, Negros Occidental, and Bohol last week.

At least 12 Maute members and eight NPA rebels including a top leader were killed in separate military operations in Mindanao last week, the military claimed.

On February 2, a fresh law graduate was among the five NPA rebels killed in an encounter in Bohol.

The military identified her as Hannah Jay, a native of Catubig, Northern Samar. Jay completed her law degree at the University of CebuBanilad Campus, and was an active member of Anakbayan Cebu and later the National Union of People’s Lawyer (NUPL) before she became a full-time member of the CPPNPA in 2023.

“I especially laud our operatives who successfully pursued the suspects in last year’s tragic bombing in Mindanao State University,” Teodoro said in a statement.

He said the Defense department and AFP shall remain resolute in ridding the nation of lawless elements.

Six Army soldiers and a policeman were among those who perished in the series of fighting with terrorists.

On Friday, air strikes were launched against the communist terrorist group’s suspected sanctuary in the hinterlands of Escalante, Negros Occidental, a day after fierce fighting that left 3 rebels killed.

“We mourn and honor our brave soldiers who paid the ultimate price to protect the nation, and we extend our deepest symphonies and assurances of support to the bereaved families of our valiant troops,” Teodoro said.

He said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had instructed the AFP to spare civilians from being caught in the crossfire during an armed encounter.

“We are, together with the AFP, working hard to ensure that casualties are avoided. This is the best way to honor their sacrifice,” Teodoro said.