Philippine Army Takes Offensive Fight to Abu Sayyaf
The Armed Forces chief has given the go-signal for the offensive against Abu Sayyaf bandits in Basilan following President Arroyo’s directive to crush the al Qaeda-linked terrorist network, ABS-CBN News reported Sunday.
“That’s the order, go with the offensive against the Abu Sayaff, focus will remain here in Basilan and Sulu… and the military will go after the Abu Sayaff ASAP,” Gen. Hermogenes Esperon told reporters following a command conference with military leaders and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro.
Teodoro, for his part, said the government will help in the evacuation of affected residents. He also said that measures are being undertaken to avoid civilian casualties.