Military given another 72-hours for BIFF pursuit, clearing operations

MANILA-- Another 72-hours have been granted to military forces conducting pursuit and clearing operations against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao.This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Joselito Kakilala Sunday.He added that the 72-hour extension was requested by 6th Infantry Division Major Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan to ensure that the BIFF are cleared from the towns comprising the SPMS Box area in Maguindanao.These towns are Shariff Aguak, Pagatin (Datu Saudi), Mamasapano and Salibo (Shariff Saydona).The original 72-hour extension was supposed to end Saturday.The offensive against the BIFF started last Feb. 25 when BIFF members started occupying civilian communities in Maguindanao and North Cotabato.As this develops, AFP public affairs chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc believes that the BIFF is now demoralized as they have been constantly attacked by military forces for the past weeks.It is also a possibility that the bandits are now running out of ammunition as minimal losses have been incurred by the military. (PNA)