2 BIFF bombers slain in North Cotabato

NORTH COTABATO, Philippines — Two suspected bombers of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were killed in an alleged shootout with law enforcers in this province before dawn yesterday.

 Patrick Ali Saligan, 30, and Nolodz Saibin Ali, 20, were carrying explosives when they were cornered in Barangay Sangat, M’lang, according to Superintendent Aldrin Gonzalez, Soccsksargen police spokesman.

A bag which contained a 60 millimeter mortar projectile rigged with a blasting contraption attached to a mobile phone was reportedly recovered from the fatalities.

Gonzalez said probers are investigating if the fatalities had links with BIFF commander Gani Saligan, who is facing charges in connection with recent bombings and drug trafficking  in the province.