Joint Task Group Commander Col. Alan Arrojado briefs AFP Chief Gen. Gregorio Catapang Jr. about the current situation in Sulu on his visit on Wednesday, March 4. AFP Public Affairs Office PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines – Armed Forces chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr. visited Sulu on Wednesday amid stepped up offensives against the bandit group Abu Sayyaf.
A photo release by the AFP Public Affairs Office showed Colonel Alan Arrojado, commander of Joint Task Group Sulu, giving Catapang and other top officials a briefing about the current situation there.
Last week, elite Army units engaged the bandits in a firefight in Patikul town. Two soldiers were killed and dozens of soldiers and bandits were wounded. At least 25 Abu Sayyaf members were reported killed.
The Abu Sayyaf is currently holding several foreign and local hostages including European birdwatcher Ewold Horn.
Catapang has ordered an all-out offensive against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu and Basilan.
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