PAF on alert in NE Mindanao

CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – A wide and massive pursuit operation against the landmine attackers of government security forces was ordered yesterday involving all field unit commanders in Northeastern Mindanao.

Likewise ordered on standby alert are combat pilots of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) strike wing Task Operation Group (TOG) for possible air cover to the pursuing ground troops in the Diwata mountain range bordering the provinces of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur.

All field unit commanders have also been ordered to strengthen their respective headquarters defense perimeters and round-the-clock security patrols to avert any surprise attacks by the NPAs who are preparing for their founding anniversary celebration on March 29.

“They are conducting terroristic activities every time they celebrate their anniversary and all field unit commanders are being directed to redouble their efforts in protecting the civilian populace,” said Maj. Gen. Oscar T. Lactao, commanding general of the AFP’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID).

Gen. Lactao also directed Col. Alexander L. Macario, commanding officer of the Army’s 401st Infantry (Unite N’ Fight) Brigade and Col. Isidro L. Purisima, commanding officer of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade to “pursue without let up” the attackers of 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion (2nd SRB) in Barangay Magsaysay, Prosperidad town, Agusan del Sur last Saturday evening.

The elite force of 2nd SRB was conducting clearing operation for the convoy of advance force of 402nd Brigade on its way to Surigao del Sur when they encountered landmines planted by communist insurgents, which resulted in the death of 3 Army soldiers and wounding of 5 others at Barangay Magsaysay, Prosperidad town, Agusan del Sur.