MALACAÑANG extended on Thursday its sympathies and condolences to the families of victims of another foiled airstrike launch that missed its target and instead killed two soldiers and wounded 11 others in Marawi City.
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the government, on behalf of President Rodrigo Duterte, was “saddened” by the “unfortunate” incident that occurred in the war-torn city around 12 p.m. Wednesday, July 12.
He said investigation is being conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, Task Force Marawi spokesperson, said Wednesday that initial reports indicated that the bomb from an air raid was 250 meters off target.
Herrera said the impact of the explosion caused nearby structures to collapse.
“Large debris from heavily reinforced buildings accidentally hit two of our personnel, who succumbed to death in the process,” he said.
The presidential spokesman said the gallantry of the slain soldiers who sacrificed their lives “for duty, flag and country” would be remembered.
He also assured the families of fallen troops that they would receive assistance from the government.
“These fallen men in uniform laid down their lives for duty, flag and country. Government will remember their heroism and will provide assistance to their bereaved families,” Abella said.
It was the second incident of “friendly fire” in the ongoing fight of government forces against Maute terror group in Marawi City who sought to establish enclave in the southern Philippines for Islamic State fighters in Southeast Asia.
On May 31, 11 soldiers were also killed when an air strike conducted against Maute extremists accidentally hit the security troops. (SunStar Philippines)