AFP to procure P2.6 billion ammo after campaign vs Maute group

MANILA, Philippines — Having used loads of ammunition in the campaign against Maute militants in Marawi for five months last year, the Philippine Army is putting up a P2.6-billion fund to procure  mortar and artillery rounds.

Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva, Army spokesman, said the procurement would replenish their stockpile of 60mm, 81mm and 105 Howitzer rounds.

“We used a considerable quantity of 60mm and 81mm mortar and 105 high-explosive rounds during the campaign (in Marawi)... We have programmed the procurement of...  ammunition... to include bullets for small arms,” Villanueva said.

However, he clarified that their stockpile has not been depleted because of the campaign against Maute militants.

Villanueva gave assurance that soldiers from division to squad levels have adequate supply of ammunition.

Based on initial estimates, the military spent P3 billion in the fighting in Marawi.

A total of 22 battalions were deployed in the city at the height of the offensive.

Military operations against the remaining Maute militants led by Owayda Benito Marohombsar, alias Abu Dar, is ongoing in Lanao del Sur.

At least five militants were killed in air strikes and artillery fire at the border of Tubaran and Pagayaman towns on Sunday.

As of yesterday, the provincial government said 1,391 families were displaced in the fighting. At least 464 of these families are staying in evacuation centers in Tubaran and Binidayan. – With Roel Pareño