WHAT THEY SAY: Abu Sayyaf ambush

Anne Turla, founder, Soldiers’ Wives and Girlfriends (SWAG) Philippines:

So many soldiers are killed in battle every year. Is this a failure on the part of the government or don’t the rebels and terrorists fear the government anymore?

Sen. Grace Poe, presidential candidate: These terrorists should be immediately pursued and crushed by the full might of our military and police forces, with due regard for the safety of innocent civilians.

Vice President Jejomar Binay, presidential candidate: This tragedy is a reminder to us to address the problem of poverty, which is the cause of the peace and order problem in Mindanao.

CHRISTINE O. AVENDAÑO, DJ YAP AND DELFIN T. MALLARI, INQUIRER SOUTHERN LUZON