AFP: Soldiers slain by ASG in a bad position

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - A senior military official said the six troopers, including a junior officer who were killed Sunday in Basilan were on the "disadvantage" position when they were ambushed by the Abu Sayyaf group.

Rear Admiral Reynaldo Yoma, chief Task Group Zambasulta, said the team led by 2nd Lt. Jun Corpuz were on security patrol when they came under attack by 20 Abu Sayyaf militants about 7:30 a.m. Sunday at Sitio Monpol, Barangay Libug, Sumisop town.

Corpuz and five of his men were killed while three other troopers were injured as firefight ensued.

"The troops were on security patrol at medyo nasa disadvantage position sila when they were attacked by bandits," Yoma said at the sidelines of the arrival funeral honor given to the six soldiers inside the naval base this city.

The slain soldiers, including 2nd Lt. Corpuz, were Sgt. Tranquilino Germo, Pfc. Rolando Enters, Freddie Pandoy, Raffy Canuto and Mark Anthony Singson, all members of 64th Infantry Battalion.

He said there were no intelligence lapses as the troops were aware and have been briefed of the security condition in the area.

Yoma said pursuit operations continued as the military is deploying an additional battalion of marines in Basilan to help the present number of troops against the Abu Sayyaf group.

Yoma declined to comment on reports that the Abu Sayyaf group also managed to cart away the high powered firearms, including a light machine gun, from the slain soldiers.