Joint Task Force Iligan formed to guard city vs terrorists

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — The military Western Mindanao Command is increasing security in key areas in anticipation of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria-inspired groups targeting cities in the region. 

 

The military is on alert after reports that ISIS has been conducting massive recruitment after ISIS-inspired Abu Sayyaf and Maute terrorists were defeated in Marawi City after five months of fighting last year, Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said.

 

Galvez said the command has already organized Joint Task Force Iligan (JTFI) in Iligan City. JTFI is the the ninth anti-terror and security unit under Westmincom.

 

The other task forces under Westmincom are:

"For the information of everybody, Iligan is threatened. And now, we organized a Joint Task Force Iligan. An inter-agency task force similar to Joint Task Force Zamboanga and Joint Task Force Cotabato,” Galvez said.

 

The military said militants have been using Iligan as a corridor through the Lanao areas.

 

Galvez said Westmincom wants to use Zamboanga City as a model for security in Iligan City.

 

He said JTF Zamboanga and a strong police presence thwarted attempted diversionary attacks during intensified operations against the Abu Sayyaf group in Basilan and Sulu and during the siege in Marawi.

 

He said logistical support like vehicles provided by local governments and close coordination with community elders has also helped secure Zamboanga City.

 

"We will continue to secure cities because we see the cities are the future targets of the ISIS group," Galvez said.