2 BIFF men slain in Cotabato clash

MANILA, Philippines — An alleged sub-leader of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and his companion were killed in a firefight with government security forces in Cotabato yesterday morning.

Mando Mamalupong, 50, and Nor Hamin Sabdulla, 19, died at the scene in Barangay Olandang, Midsayap town at past 5 a.m.

A joint team of the police and the military was patrolling in Sitio Macantal when they encountered a group of armed men.

The bandits retreated, leaving behind their dead comrades, two rifles and ammunition.

Police said Mamalupong was division commander and spokesman for the BIFF Carialan faction.

He had standing arrest warrants for illegal possession and manufacture of firearms in Midsayap.