MORE troops have been sent to North Cotabato and Maguindanao to thwart renewed attacks by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, following a series of attacks on villages on Christmas eve.
“We are deploying additional forces even during this holiday season,” said Army Chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Ano.
Last week, BIFF forces launched separate attacks on different military installations and civilian targets in North Cotabato and Maguindanao, sparking firefights that killed six farmers, two soldiers and 26 BIFF rebels.
“While we are not seeing any full- blown conflict, it is better to be prepared always,” Ano said.
At least 1,102 families have been displaced by the series of assaults carried out by BIFF while civilians in Kauran villages in Ampatuan town are reportedly arming themselves in an attempt to ward off possible rebel attacks.
“We are all for peace but we have to be prepared to defend ourselves against any lawless group out to harm us and our families,” a farmer from Aleosan said.
BIFF rebels shot six farmers at close range while tending their farm in Kauran town last week.
The displaced families came from villages in North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.
The villagers were forced to abandon their homes to avoid being caught in the crossfire after fighting broke between BIFF rebels and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
Rommel Sinarimbo, Office of Civil Defense deputy operations officer in Centeral Mindanao, said the displaced families are currently staying with their relatives in safer areas.
The security atmosphere remains volatile as sporadic fighting still erupts, and it is not safe yet for residents to return to their homes, he said.