The Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Command said yesterday that military operations to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group and safely recover the 23 remaining hostages will continue even during the holidays.
Army Major Filemon Tan Jr., AFP Western Mindanao Command spokesperson, said the WMC and its allied units will continue to bring pressure to the ASG. “The WMC and units under it will continue to operate this holiday season,” he said.
Tan added that granting of holiday leaves are not prohibited but said the decision will be enforced by the WMC unit commanders.
“Guidance was given that troops will be allowed to go on leave as long as it will not hamper planned operations,” he said. (PNA and Francis T. Wakefield)