New Westmincom chief told: Neutralize Sayyaf

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  – Armed Forces chief Gen. Jessie Dellosa yesterday instructed the new commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf while pursuing the military’s internal peace and security plan dubbed “Bayanihan.”

Dellosa issued the order as he installed Maj. Gen. Noel Coballes as the new Westmincom chief, replacing Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, at Camp Navarro in Upper Calarian this city yesterday.

Ferrer is retiring from military service tomorrow upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Prior to his new assignment, Coballes headed the Army’s 1st Infantry Division based in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.

“My instruction is to neutralize (the Abu Sayyaf). I’m sure he will do everything just to follow my instruction,” Dellosa said, citing Coballes’ experience and capability.

Dellosa, who was once a Special Forces commander in Basilan, said they would only modify their operational approach depending on the situation.

Currently, the military has deployed an Army brigade and Special Forces in Basilan, while Marines are pursuing the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

“The instruction is just to continue what Gen. Ferrer had started. Like for example, go after these lawless elements in this area…,” Dellosa said.