Government forces on alert in Mindanao

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Security forces doubled the alert in Mindanao ahead of today’s inauguration of president-elect Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.

Lt. Gen. Benjamin Dolorfino, Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) chief, said troops have been deployed in key areas in Mindanao to prevent armed groups from staging attacks to spoil the presidential inauguration.

“We have enhanced the presence of our soldiers in the city and urban areas. We have anticipated the threat groups might conduct atrocities to get the attention of the incoming administration,” Dolorfino said.

Troops have been deployed to set up additional road checkpoints in key areas in the region, particularly in urban areas.

Lt. Gen. Reymundo Ferrer, Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) chief, also ordered an increased offensive against New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas in northern and eastern Mindanao.

Ferrer said the NPA has increased its tactical manuevers in the region, prompting the military to launch more offensives in the areas.

The military is also monitoring the movement of Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels in coordination with the international ceasefire monitoring team.