GOVT FORCES SWING INTO ACTION AS BIFF REBELS HOLD THEIR GROUND

Midsayap Attack Update

By Manny Pinol

www.mannypinol.com

More government forces today marched towards the two Midsayap, North Cotabato barangays earlier attacked by members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters as the rebels estimated to be about 70 to 100 heavily-armed men dug their grounds and are fighting back.

Field reports provided to www.mannypinol.com by combatants in the field said that the BIFF rebels are holding their ground in Barangay Malingao where several teachers and students were earlier held hostage.

As of this afternoon, the Philippine Army Recon Battalion from Talayan, Maguindanao has entered the battle area and soldiers are expected to engage the rebels until sundown today.

Earlier today, 4 Mechanized Armored Vehicles were dispatched from the 6th Infantry Division Headquarters to help defend the town of Midsayap.

Field reporters of www.mannypinol.com relayed the information that as of 3:15 p.m. today, the BIFF rebels were still fighting back and had not moved from their position in Barangay Malingao.

Unconfirmed reports said at least one government soldier was killed in the battle earlier today.

(Photo caption: File photo of Filipino soldiers.)

Source: Manny Piñol