AFP deploys more troops in Surigao del Norte

MANILA, Philippines – In response to New People’s Army attack on three mines in Surigao del Norte on Monday, the military through its spokesman, Colonel Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., said on Tuesday it would deploy additional forces in the area.

One battalion, a light-reaction company and additional air assets were deployed in the area, Burgos said.

“We [AFP] have enough forces in the area and we will exhaust all resources and all efforts to catch them,” Burgos said.

Speaking to reporters, Burgos said a joint Task Force Taganito has been formed by the Eastern Mindanao Command to be led by Lieutenant General Arthur Tabaquero. The military is “concentrated and focused” and “pouring all forces” to go after the perpetrators, Burgos added.

He said that AFP Chief Eduardo Oban ordered a “hot pursuit” and asked to be kept posted on the progress of the operations.

“He wants results,” Burgos said.

When asked what kind of results the military chief was expecting, Burgos said: “Putting perpetrators behind the bars or justice.”

Monday’s attack also meant the NPA has lost its mass base because they have resorted to intimidation and extortion, Burgos said. “They [NPA] are going after companies who do not want to pay ‘revolutionary tax.’”

Burgos said pursuit operations would continue despite the peace talks. He also assured the military would bring this matter to the National Democratic Front, the negotiating arm of the rebel group.

“Wala tayong vina-violate dun sa usapin [We aren’t violating the talks],” Burgos told reporters. With reports from Kate Evangelista, Jamie Marie Elona