Military enforces strict camp regulations in Mindanao

In the wake of continuous bomb threats by terror group, all military camps in Northern and Northeastern Mindanao implemented stricter measures to prevent any terrorist attacks.  Area command chief of the Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division Brig. Gen. Jose T. Barbieto on Wednesday ordered all brigade and battalion commanders, including operational control (Opcon) unit commanders, to strengthen their respective headquarters’ defense perimeters and conduct round-the-clock patrol and combat operations without letup against suspected communist insurgents’ lairs.

He also ordered field unit commanders to extend full security assistance to key vital installations such as power, communications, sea ports and airports to avert any surprise terrorist attacks.  Barbieto also directed its field commanders to closely coordinate with the local government units (LGUs) in the all-out campaign against terrorist groups.

The recent directive was in view of the recent bombings in Central Mindanao and Zamboanga Peninsula that killed and wounded several innocent civilians.

Maj. Samuel C. Sagun, regional Army spokesman, said “measures are being studied to help alleviate the plight of the people affected by the inconveniences brought about by the new anti-terror measures.”

He sought the cooperation of those affected as “the security and safety of our personnel and those living inside the camp is the paramount reason of this stricter enforcement of camp regulations.” (PNA)