2 soldiers killed in clashes with terrorists

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — A soldier who was reported missing after a gunfight with Dawlah Islamiya terrorists in Datu Hoffer town in Maguindanao del Sur was found dead by villagers on Wednesday, the Philippine Army said.

The lifeless Cpl. Junie Mangalay Jr. was found in a grassy field in Barangay Tuayan Mother. His rifle and personal belongings were missing. Mangalay is the second casualty in the skirmishes with terrorists this week.

His companion, Cpl. Ryan Bagual, was earlier confirmed dead after the firefight.

Both soldiers are members of the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion.

“They are both heroes for having fulfilled their pledge to perform their duties as soldiers even at the cost of their lives,” said Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir Cagara, 6th Infantry Division commander.

Local officials said the remaining members of the terror group are trying to make an impression that they are still capable of attacking the armed forces despite the surrender of 839 of their companions.