[Trending Now] PRAY FOR PH: Strong 7,000 AFP Soldiers Vs. Abu Sayyaf

Recently, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella announced that the government is waging an all-out war against the notorious Abu Sayaff groups after 15 soldiers died upon a clash against Abu Sayaff.

With this, the ASG responded with a violent attack in Davao City and is responsible for the bombing last Friday night. The explosion killed at least 14 people on the spot and 4 more upon arrival at the hospital. 67 were also injured. ASG warns for more attacks in the coming days. 

Meanwhile, the government is still determined to finish the group. There are about 7,000 strong force of government troops deployed in Sulu to defeat the 400-500 force of the Abu Sayyaf. That is like 14 soldiers to 1 Abu Sayyaf member. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Gen. Ricardo Visaya says that this is the biggest concentration of government troops since the early 1990s. He also admitted that it would be a great challenge for their team as they are not familiar to the terrains and jungles of Sulu, especially soldiers who were never assigned in Sulu.  

"But we can overcome as time goes by,” Visaya said.

One of their setbacks is also the lack of cooperation by the nearby communities. ASG is known to have good relationship with them as they give them money from the ransom they get from their kidnappings. 

“The AFP is committed to use all the resources of the AFP para matapos na talaga ito (for this to end),” said Visaya after meeting with the local chief executives and urged for their support. 

Meanwhile, Sulu Governor, Toto Tan isn't actually impressed with the soldier force poured in Sulu as this is not a new strategy. 

On the other hand, AFP Spokesman BGen. Restituto Padila revealed that they have evacuated 2,000 families equivalent to 6,000 individuals.

Source: TNP, CNNPhilippines