Basilan convoy ambush injures six soldiers

Six Philippine Army soldiers were wounded Monday morning when unidentified armed men ambushed a two-vehicle military convoy in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.

Col. Louie Dema-ala, chief of the Philippine Army Public Affairs Office, confirmed that troops from the 45th Infantry Battalion were traveling toward the 1101st Infantry Brigade headquarters in Isabela City when gunmen opened fire.

Emergency responders evacuated the wounded personnel to a medical facility in Lamitan City for immediate care. Military authorities confirmed all six soldiers received medical treatment and are in stable condition.

Tactical reinforcements were deployed across Tipo-Tipo to secure nearby communities, block escape routes and conduct pursuit operations against the attackers.

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

“Putting the safety of our fellow Filipinos as our top priority, pursuit operations are underway, and the Philippine Army is determined to bring the perpetrators to justice,” he added.

Joint Task Force Orion condemned the ambush and stated that coordinated security operations are underway with local police and civil authorities to establish the identity of the armed group.

Army officials appealed to the public to remain calm and rely on verified military reports while tactical security operations continue in the area.