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Southeast Asia |
Captured MNLF Camp in Jolo Now a Military Base |
2005-02-17 |
![]() Soldiers said the place was littered with explosives and booby traps and they also discovered dozens of bunkers and tunnels the rebels used in their escape. Officials said the rebels, estimated at around 800, have fled, but troops were pursuing them and sporadic fighting continue in the town. "We will pursue them and we will neutralize them and there is no escape," said Lt. Gen. Alberto Braganza, commander of military forces in the southern Philippines. Braganza led about 500 troops in a simple flag ceremony inside the former rebel camp. It was the first time in 30 years that a Philippine flag was raised inside an MNLF camp, one soldier said. "This day is very special to us and we dedicate this victory to our fallen comrades," the soldier said. Braganza also awarded 11 soldiers, including a former MNLF rebel, with the Gold Cross medals for their bravery after they fought hundreds of rebels who tried, but failed to capture several government detachments in Jolo. |
Posted by:Fred |