15 BIFF members killed in July 29 clash in Maguindanao, says Army

The Philippine Army on Saturday said 15 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and two soldiers died during the July 29 clash with troops in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.

An earlier report said 10 BIFF members were killed and two soldiers died in the gunfight.

The clash started at 5:20 a.m. and lasted until 11:30 a.m.

Soldiers from the Army's 57th Infantry Battalion were patrolling the area when they encountered a number of BIFF and Dawlah Islamiya terror group members in Barangay Penditen.

A total of 13 soldiers were brought to Camp Siongco Station Hospital for treatment of slight injuries.

Meanwhile, the family of the soldiers who were killed and injured were already informed about the incident.

Joint Task Force Central commander Major General Diosdado Carreon expressed condolences to the relatives of those who died.

“I extend my deepest sympathy to our fallen soldiers, who offered the ultimate sacrifice while performing their duties to protect the communities against the terrorists’ treacherous activities,” he said.

Meanwhile, eight BIFF and Dawlah Islamiya members were injured.

Among those injured was Hassan Indal, the leader of the terror group, according to civilian residents. —KG, GMA News