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TWO terrorists were reported killed in separate military operations in the provinces of Maguindanao del Norte and Sultan Kudarat on Good Friday, April 18.
Lt. Col. Roden Orbon, spokesman of the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry Division, identified one of the slain terrorists as Norsaidie Sami Tito, a member of the Cato Group, a notorious armed group involved in criminal activities in the area.
In a report, the victim was killed in an encounter that occurred at about 5 a.m. on Good Friday in Barangay Met, Date Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao de Norte.
Brig. Gen. Michael Santos, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, had alerted troops despite the observance of Holy Week activities.
Orbon said the operation was conducted by the Marine Battalion Landing Team-5 (MBLT-5) along with police and other law enforcement agencies.
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During the operations, joint authorities seized various types of weapons that include a Springfield Armor caliber.45 pistol, and caliber.22 pistol with a scope.
Troops also recovered ammunition, magazines, a grenade, five handheld radios, as well as two passports and two identification cards.
Meanwhile, at around 5:00 p.m. on the same day, troops from the 7th Infantry (Tapat) Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Tristan Rey Vallescas, encountered another terrorist group in Purok Patyog, Barangay Banali, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat, leaving another terrorist killed.
Reports said local residents reported the presence of an armed group extorting money from farmers, businessmen, and even political candidates.
The operating troops of the 7IB promptly responded, resulting in an encounter and death of a CTG member and seizure of an M16 rifle.
Maj. Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and the Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), extended his recognition and praise for the successful operation.
"I wholeheartedly commend our soldiers from MBLT-5 and 7IB for their prompt and effective action against armed groups that continue to cause fear in our communities," said Gumiran.
"These successes reflect the high level of professionalism, dedication, and sacrifice of our soldiers for peace and security, even though most of them are observing the Holy Week," added Gumiran. "We will continue to advance military operations to end the menace of terrorism and achieve a peaceful and safe region for all."
Gumiran also extended his condolences to the victims, and at the same time called on the remaining members of the terrorist groups to return to the government and live peacefully with their loved ones.
