New Navy chief visits wounded troops, vows support

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - - Newly installed Philippine Navy chief Rear Admiral Jesus Millan assured Thursday the marines, battling the terror group of Abu Sayyaf in Sulu province, of   support to ensure the mission's success.

Millan made the pronouncement as he and Marine Commandant Maj. Gen. Romeo Tanalgo visited the wounded marines at the Camp Navarro General Hospital (CNGH) inside the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) and extend relief and cash assistance to the latter.

“...we are here to find out the requirements needed by our units in the field to sustain their operational requirements,” Millan said.

He said that under his leadership he wants to emphasize two critical concerns that should be addressed: the accomplishment of the mission and ensure the  high morale and welfare of the men on the field.

The recent fighting in Patikul town, Sulu left a marine killed and 21 others wounded when government troops attacked and captured the training camp of the Abu Sayyaf and left 25 militants killed and 24 others wounded.

Millan said majority of the wounded soldiers are now in stable condition and are recuperating.

Tanalgo also lauded the 2nd Marine Brigade for  containing the Abu Sayyaf group in their area and launching a major offensive against the militants.

“The units there have implemented a strategic plant that constricted the ASG and isolated the operation in that place,” Tanalgo said.

He said the operation is a big blow to the activities of the Abu Sayyaf group. - Roel Pareño