Running on empty: AFP denies soldiers going hungry

MANILA - A military spokesman on Monday denied reports that soldiers fighting Moro National Liberation Front rebels in Zamboanga City do not have enough food. "I'd like to assure that units we deployed here in Zamboanga are organized units, meaning each unit has its own combat support. They are organized in such a way that each unit is independent and can sustain itself. Each individual soldier is accorded a subsistence allowance and this is purely dedicated to his food every month. This is held by the mess officer who ensures that he has the necessary food," Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, chief of the AFP public affairs office, said. "Besides that, general headquarters also downloaded funds to augment the supply that they have especially in food and other supplies," he added. The spokesman admitted that some of the soldiers might not have time to eat because of the ongoing conflict. He said some of the soldiers chose not to eat because of the mission. "I'd like to say that although they do not eat regularly , it does not necessarily state that they do not have the necessary support. They do have that," he said. He also said soldiers have more than enough ammunition because the military has a main supply center nearby. Zagala urged the public to let the soldiers do their jobs. "Please do not worry about us. We are trained to make sacrifices especially not having meals at the regular time. Just be assured that as your soldiers, we will continue to fight. We are ready and trained for such sacrifices to fulfill the mission even without sleep or food." In the interview, Zagala said the Armed Forces of the Philippines has gained the momentum as the siege reached its 8th day. He said Nur Misuari's group is believed to be on the retreat and is making a last stand in the coastal community. The military spokesman said 51 fighters loyal to Nur Misuari have been killed while 48 more were either captured or have surrendered so far. Zagala said the MNLF is using mortars not just against government troops but on civilians including Red Cross workers. ANC, September 16, 2013