Zamboanga City — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. and Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) Chief Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete held a press briefing on Thursday inside a military camp in Zamboanga City to address the recent ambush in Sumisip, Basilan. The attack left two soldiers dead and 12 others wounded.
General Brawner revealed that ground military commanders have submitted a formal protest letter to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) after identifying some of its members as being involved in the ambush that occurred in Barangay Cabengbeng on Wednesday. He further disclosed that a joint pursuit operation, in coordination with MILF counterparts, has been launched to apprehend those responsible for the attack.
Support for Wounded Soldiers
Following a command conference at the 101st Infantry Brigade Headquarters in Isabela City de Basilan, General Brawner visited wounded soldiers receiving medical care at the Basilan Medical Center. He awarded them medals and provided financial assistance as a token of support for their service and sacrifice. A similar gesture was extended to seven other wounded soldiers confined at Camp Navarro General Hospital, Wesmincom Headquarters, in Zamboanga City. Joining him during these visits were Wesmincom Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete and 101st Brigade Commander Brigadier General Alvin Luzon.
Commitment to Peace
During his visit to Basilan, General Brawner also met with Governor Jim Salliman-Hataman. The governor underscored the importance of sustaining the peace process amid the ongoing investigation into the Sumisip incident. “Both sides must remain sincere and acknowledge any weaknesses while respecting the results of the investigation. On-ground initiatives for peace should continue,” Governor Salliman emphasized.
Focus on Accountability
General Brawner reiterated the AFP’s commitment to ensuring justice and accountability for the attack, while emphasizing the need to maintain collaborative efforts with the MILF to prevent further violence. His presence in Basilan and his immediate actions to address the concerns of the troops and local officials highlight the AFP’s resolve to safeguard peace and security in the region.
The AFP chief’s visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the military’s dedication to protecting communities and fostering a harmonious relationship with all stakeholders, even as the pursuit of justice continues for the ambush victims.