DATU HOFFER, Maguindanao - Two soldiers were killed while another was wounded after government troops exchanged gunfire with members of the separatist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) on Sunday in Datu Hoffer town in Maguindanao, the military said Monday.
Troops from the Army's 57th Infantry Battalion were deployed to Barangay Talibadok to support the Inter-Agency Task Force in implementing the general community quarantine in the area when the BIFF members fired at them.
An exchange of gunfire followed, lasting for about 45 minutes, resulting in the death of the two soldiers.
The fatalities were identified as PFC Jermie Ombiang and PFC Vecinte Gata. PFC Lyndon Matias, on the other hand, sustained wounds.
"We are deeply saddened by the report that two of our brave soldiers were killed in action while performing their duties for the good of humanity," said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
"We will make sure that these terrorists, who are obviously desperate to strike back during this time when we are all working to defeat the coronavirus, will pay for their treacherous acts," he added.
Government troops are continuing to pursue the fleeing BIFF members, as of posting.