Pagadian City (August 27)- Maj. General Romeo D. Lustestica, Commanding General of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army gave marching orders to ‘daredevil’ troopers of the 32nd INF battalion to show great courage and observe human rights in dealing with their enemies on the ground

In a send off ceremony on August 26 at the wharf area here, Lustestica ordered the 24 officers and 280 members of the 32nd Infantry Battalion wearing full battle gears

The ‘daredevil’ troopers based in Salvador, Lanao del Norte who are determined to battle terrorism and insurgency, were ordered by the AFP Chief of Staff Victor S. Ibrado to augment the forces of the 1st Marine brigade in Basilan province engaged in a fiery battle against Abu Sayyaf Group over the weekend.

The 32nd battalion covers municipalities of Baroy, Kapatagan , Lala, Magsaysay, Salvador , Sapad, Sultan Naga Dimpaoro, and Tangkal.

“I encourage you to show your bravery and strictly observe human rights,” Lustestica said.

He said that some of their enemies are treating their comrades cruelly and violently in the battle field, but he however instructed them to be gentlemen.

“ Even in war fighting, we should continue to become gentlemen and honorable men in our fight against the enemies,” Lustestica added.

The Tabak chief said, the AFP strictly adheres to the implementation of the suspension of military operation (SOMO) against the MILF as well as the so-called suspension of military action (SOMA).

The general explained that even with the observance of the SOMO, he does not want that they will be like “sitting ducks” , the target of their enemies.

“We should continue to be in active defense posture, defend ourselves from the attack of ASG and MILF,” Lustestica stressed.

Lustestica, however, instructed the troopers to observe and support the peace process, saying that by doing so, the stalled formal peace negotiations between the Philippine government and MILF will continue to prosper.

The troops left Pagadian City and boarded to Philippine Navy transport ships – the Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) 291 Subanon and BRP 293 Bagobo. (PIA9-Pagadian City)

Last update: 27-08-2009 14:39