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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider AFP dismisses ISIS threat of major attacks in Mindanao cities, towns

AFP dismisses ISIS threat of major attacks in Mindanao cities, towns

Published Apr 21, 2020 12:00 am
By Nonoy Lacson ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command (AFP-WestMinCom) downplayed on Tuesday, April 21, the reported plan to mount a siege, or wage a second war against the government by Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired militants. AFP-WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said the military was dismissing the reported attacks which are only aimed at sowing fear among residents, particularly those living in war-town Marawi City. In a message posted on Facebook, the terror group warned residents living in Saguiaran, Baloi, Iligan City, Malabang, Butig, Lumbatan, Pantar, Piagapo, Cagayan de Oro City, Davao City, Labangan, Pagadian City, Tukuran and Zamboanga City about a possible second was between soldiers and the militants. The message said the attack will be done during the month of Rahmadan. “Please inform the Muslim and Christians residents of the mention place to be aware. The MILF and the ISIS militant will enter into second war with soldiers due to Bangsamoro Basic Law or (BBL),” the social media post said. The message also called the attention of the police in Pagadian City, informing them that the group was already at Tukuran and Labangan in Zamboanga del Sur. “Be ready don’t go out especially at night. The group will (sic) held hostage residents in the area when they will be cornered by the authorities,” Sobejana said the messages were, in fact, just recycled, and circulated even before the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law in 2017. Sobejana said the AFP was on top of the situation. We will not let our guards down in putting an end to terrorism in the midst of this pandemic.
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