Senator Grace Poe condemned Sunday the “brutal murder” of government soldiers after a nearly 10-hour clash with Abu Sayyaf rebels in Basilan on Saturday.
READ: 18 soldiers dead in 10-hr clash with ASG
“We condemn the Abu Sayyaf and its supporters in the strongest terms for the brutal and treacherous murder of our troops who were on legitimate military operations in Basilan,” Poe said in a statement.
The senator said the “terrorists should be immediately pursued and crushed by the full might of our military and police forces, with due regard for the safety of the innocent civilians.”
READ: Over 100 ASG bandits fought in Basilan clash
“We call on the public to be vigilant in reporting to authorities those groups and individuals, including public officials, who support and coddle the Abu Sayyaf and other armed groups for their selfish gains at the expense of peace and security. They should be exposed and answer for their criminal acts,” she said.
Poe urged the Aquino administration to ensure that the families of the fallen heroes are given assistance.
READ: Gazmin, Iriberri head to Basilan
“I also urge the national government to ensure that the needs of the families of our fallen heroes are provided for immediately,” she said.
She said the incident should never happen again.
“Once more, this incident highlights the importance of giving priority to the needs of our soldiers and policemen to prevent regrettable incidents like this. This should never happen again,” she said. JE