6 Army soldiers wounded in Basilan ambush

Six Philippine Army soldiers were wounded after unidentified armed men ambushed a two-vehicle military convoy in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, on Monday, 5 October.

Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said the convoy from the 45th Infantry Battalion was traveling toward the 1101st Infantry “Gagandilan” Brigade headquarters in Tabiawan, Isabela City, when the attack occurred.

The wounded soldiers were evacuated to a medical facility in Lamitan City for treatment.

“Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, while also giving immediate care to our wounded troops in Lamitan City,” Dema-ala said.

He added that pursuit operations were underway to identify and arrest those behind the ambush.

Joint Task Force Orion said reinforcements were deployed to strengthen security in the area and prevent further attacks against troops and nearby communities.

“The JTF Orion condemns this act of violence. We assure the public that appropriate security measures are being undertaken in coordination with concerned units and authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and hold those responsible accountable,” the task force said.

Dema-ala urged the public to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information while security operations continue.

“We urge the public to rely on official information, which will be released once additional facts have been established and confirmed,” he said.