The Philippine Army assured swift assistance will be provided to the soldiers killed and wounded in a recent attack on their troops in Basilan province.

Army Chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido emphasized the military’s "firm resolve" to sustain the country’s “hard-earned peace and progress” in Basilan.

“We are working closely with local government units and law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of this treacherous act face the full consequences of their actions and justice is served to our fallen heroes,” Galido said Thursday.

Army’s 101st Infantry Battalion Commander, Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon said the ambush occurred on Wednesday afternoon in Barangay Cabengbeng in the Municipality of Sumisip, where troops were providing security for personnel from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) conducting a validation mission and stakeholder coordination under Project Modelling Livelihood Initiatives.

Luzon said the mission was coordinated through the Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC) under the Joint Normalization Committee and with local leaders in the area.

Lawless elements fired upon the troops and the mission convoy, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to 12 others.

“While securing Barangay Lower Cabengbeng, troops encountered gunfire from lawless elements led by Najal Buena and Oman Hajal Jalis, individuals notorious for involvement in violent conflicts (rido) in the area,” Luzon said.

“Tragically, the attack was supported by some members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), raising significant concerns about their role in fostering peace and stability,” he added.

The culprits also burned the Army’s KM450 military vehicle.

Citing reports from the ground, Luzon said two lawless elements were killed, “while the number of wounded remains undetermined.”

“The 101st Infantry Brigade pays tribute to the bravery and professionalism of the soldiers who defended the peace process and ensured the safety of the UNDP team,” Luzon stated.

He urged the MILF leadership to take appropriate action regarding the incident.

“The 101st Infantry Brigade also calls on the MILF leadership to take immediate action against members involved in this incident. Their participation undermines the principles of the peace agreement and threatens the progress made in normalization efforts,” Luzon stressed.

He added that “accountability is critical to maintaining trust and ensuring the integrity of the peace process.”