MILF leader, soldier slain in encounter

MANILA, Philippines - As the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are preparing to implement a peace agreement, a sub-commander of the armed group and a soldier were killed in a clash in Lanao del Sur over the weekend.

MILF members allegedly opened fire at soldiers who were waiting for the crew of a television network at the boundary of Marantao and Balindong towns last Friday, said Col. Glenn Macasero, chief of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade. 

The television crewmen were reportedly shooting a documentary in the area.

One soldier was killed and two others were wounded during the attack, which Macasero claimed was unprovoked.

The military did not name the slain soldier as his family has yet to be notified.

“The soldiers had no recourse but to return fire until reinforcement arrived. Firefight ensued for an hour until the MILF retreated,” Macasero said in a statement released by the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.

Macasero said the attack was led by MILF sub-commander Javier Macagaan, who was killed during the exchange of fire that also left two rebels wounded. 

Macagaan’s body was retrieved by his relatives while the wounded soldiers were brought to the nearest hospital for treatment. The soldiers are now in stable condition.

The encounter transpired as the government is finalizing the draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, which will pave the way for the creation of a new region that will enjoy enhanced economic and political autonomy.

Capt. Franco Suelto, spokesman for the Army’s 1st ID, said the incident has been resolved by the ceasefire panel, the International Monitoring Team overseeing the peace talks between the government and the MILF, and local peace advocates. 

“This is an unfortunate incident and sad that our soldiers were ambushed while maintaining peace and security of the area. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends those killed and wounded,” Suelto said.  

Brig. Gen. Gerardo Barrientos Jr., chief of the Army’s 1st ID, called on the MILF in Lanao del Sur to intensify the dialogue with their sub-commanders and communities to prevent a repeat of the incident.