I am now convinced that the MNLF [Moro National Liberation Front] and their individual leaders have no intention of honoring the ceasefire nor of agreeing to a mere solution of autonomy in the whole of Mindanao, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Palawan.
I am also convinced that all the separated incidents of violence and violations of ceasefire are part of the plan which has been revealed by the letter dated 18 June 1977 captured in the Tabon main camp of the MNLF and received today by me from Admiral Romeo Espaldon of Southcom. I attach the report and Espaldon’s previous reports.
While everybody including the MNLF was expecting us to hit at Usman Sali in Jolo Island in revenge for the massacre at Danag, Palikul, Jolo of BGen. [Teodulfo] Bautista and his men, because of the build-up in the Zamboanga peninsula specially near Zamboanga City and the attacks on Anongan, Kawit-Kawit and Tictapul, it was decided to attack the main camp of the MNLF instead but first publicising [sic] the provocations by MNLF Al Caluang and his men (attack on Anongan, Kawit-Kawit and Tictapul), then surrounding the area of the camp with at least five battalions and the Navy on the sea and a reserve, pushing them into the main camp after bombardment by air and artillery.
The enemy has suffered heavily. Actual body count is 130 KIA [killed in action] but we estimate conservatively that another 200 have been KIA and 300 WIA [wounded in action]. The report of the civilians with them is that the enemy is routed, demoralized, sick and wounded with many taking of outright surrender and going home.
We are following the same tactics in Cotabato where a concentration of 3,000 men in Buldon threatens Parang the 4th PC [Philippine Constabulary] Zone Hq. and Dinaig (1,000 men) which threatens Awang Airport in Cotabato City. Our forces jumped off on the attack yesterday.
The same is true in Sulu. We have massed our forces for a similar envelopment and massive concentration to initially start moving on the 6th but actually pursuing a massive attack on the 10th. On the sea we are arming 15 kumpits and 110-200 pumpboats leased or purchased to deny withdrawal or reinforcements threat.
In the rally of the Barangay Community Brigades, there was loud and raucous support for martial law and the return of curfew.
The organization of the Metro Manila Community Brigades is superb and efficient. It should be the model for other regions.
Very exhilarating—the enthusiasm and the pervasive efficiency. I am now certain that
No Official Gazette entry for this day.
Manila the old opposition center is with us.