Authorities condemned an ambush by an armed group on soldiers conducting Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Response Operations for Typhoon Kristine victims in Pio Duran, Albay.
According to Major Frank Roldan, public affairs chief of the 9th Infantry Division, the encounter lasted about 15 minutes and involved around ten armed men responsible for the attack.
One soldier sustained injuries from shrapnel caused by anti-personnel mines deployed by the attackers.
Major Roldan expressed regret that insurgents exploited the province’s emergency situation amid ongoing disaster recovery.
Despite the incident, he assured that aid distribution to typhoon-affected residents will continue uninterrupted.
He also advised soldiers to remain vigilant as they carry out relief efforts, warning of the possibility of further aggressive actions by hostile groups.