Soldier killed, nine others hurt in Sulu encounter vs. Abu Sayyaf

A soldier was killed while nine other military men were injured following an encounter with suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu on Monday. 

Initial information from the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) stated that troops from the 32nd Infantry Battalion clashed with an undetermined number of local terrorists in Sitio Tubig Bukayon, Barangay Pansul.

Joint Task Force Sulu chief Major General Corleto Vinluan said government forces are conducting hot pursuit operations against the enemies who were able to escape. 

According to the military, the casualties on the enemy's side were still undetermined. 

WestMinCom commander Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, meanwhile, assured the public that the military would protect communities against terrorism and lawless elements. 

Sobejana also vowed that assistance would be given to the family of the soldier who died in the encounter. —Anna Felicia Bajo/KG, GMA News