Malacañang saddened by death of soldiers in friendly fire

An FA-50 Fighting Eagle jet takes off in this file photo released by the Air Force. A source in the military said an FA-50 dropped the bomb that fell short and hit government forces battling Islamist Maute terrorists in Marawi City. INQUIRER FILE

Malacañang is saddened by the “unfortunate incident” that killed two soldiers and injured 11 others after a government bomb missed its target and exploded near the position of government troops.

“On behalf of the President, we wish to express our deepest condolences to the families of the two soldiers who were killed in yesterday’s air strike accident while fighting Maute rebel remnants,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement on Thursday.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs chief Col. Edgard Arevalo on Wednesday said the bomb launched by government troops was 250 meters off target.

READ: It was FA-50 jet in 2nd friendly fire incident in Marawi – military source

It was the second incident wherein soldiers were the ones hit by government bombs after 11 soldiers also perished when a bomb intended for the Maute terrorists landed on an area occupied by soldiers in May 31.

“We are saddened by this unfortunate incident and a team has been created to investigate the circumstances that led to this tragedy,” Abella said.

“These fallen men in uniform laid down their lives for duty, flag and country. Government will remember their heroism and will provide the necessary assistance to their bereaved families,” he added. CBB