[SunStar] The Philippine government's focused military operations against the Abu Sayyaf in the province of Sulu continue to make headway, military officials said. Task force commander Arnel dela Vega said it is just be a matter of time before the military will engage the rebels and make a decisive blow against Abu Sayyaf ranks and leadership.Dela Vega on Monday visited the troops to boost the morale of soldiers fighting the Abu Sayyaf in the hinterlands of Patikul and Talipao municipalities.
Colonel Jose Faustino said, "We have to cleanse Sulu of the scourge of the Abu Sayyaf and make this place peaceful so that economic activity and tourism will prosper."
Colonel Jesus Manangquil said the troops are slowly constricting the movements of the militants, although they are familiar with the terrain. He said, "The familiarity of terrain is a noted advantage to them as of now but as our troops conduct more operations and patrols and become more familiar with the terrain, we will negate that advantage and we will deliver a decisive blow against the Abu Sayyaf (rebels)."
So far, 59 Abu Sayyaf militants have been killed since the start of military operations last month. Philippine troops have suffered 18 killed in action. 28 other soldiers have been injured.