1 soldier slain, 3 others wounded in offensive vs Abu Sayyaf

ZAMBOANGA CITY — A soldier was killed while three others were wounded in an ongoing military offensive against Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Basilan.

Major Filemon Tan Jr., spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, said offensive starter at 10:20 a.m. Tuesday in Barangay Dugaan in Tuburan town.

“This is a focused military operation. We continue to pound on the Abu Sayyaf, and this operation is intensified,” Tan said.

“The casualties on the Abu Sayyafs are yet to be determined,” Tan added.

Troops of the 3rd Air Division, Philippine Air Force were directed to provide air ambulance for casualty evacuation, while naval troops will conduct blockage in Tuburan, Basilan.

But Basilan Governor Jim Saliman Hataman said he received reports that three members of the Special Forces were killed in Tuburan.

Saliman said he has to visit the area to ensure support to the troops and facilitate needs of families that might be displaced. JE