2 Army applicants gunned down

MAGUINDANAO, Philippines — Two applicants for military posts were killed in an ambush by suspected terrorists in Sultan Kudarat town here on Saturday.

Celso Kusain, 25, and Anthony Jumadiao, 23, died at the scene from gunshot wounds.

Kusain and Jumadiao were on a motorcycle when the assailants waylaid them in Barangay Rebuken.

Authorities said the assailants were members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, which is known for attacks on soldiers in the adjoining provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato.

Brig. Gen. Graciano Mijares, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao police chief, yes said criminal charges would be filed against the killers.