Sulu governor hails AFP for death of top Sayyaf leaders

Sulu Governor Benjamin Loong hailed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) over the death of top leaders of al Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf group Khadaffy Janjalani and Jainal Antel Sali Jr., alias Abu Sulayman.

“With the death of top leaders of the Abu Sayyaf killed during the encounter with our soldiers, I’d like to take this opportunity to recommend our Armed Forces for a job well done. We are now starting to win the war against terrorism,” Loong said in a speech.

The governor made the commendation during the visit of US Undersecretary Karen Hughes in Sulu to inaugurate USAID’s Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) road project in Maimbung town, the scene of recent fighting between the military and the Abu Sayyaf.

Hughes along with US Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenney also inaugurated a three-room school building that was built by American soldiers where students learn how to surf the Internet using 10 computers.

“With this and in behalf of the people of Sulu, I’d like to convey our deepest thanks to the American people for the assistance you have given for our province. The United States of America has done a great work in the province of Sulu,” Loong said.

According to 104th Brigade chief Brigadier General Mark Supnet, the neutralization of Janjalani and Sali has improved the morale of soldiers in Sulu.

“The sacrifices of our troops for the past years and the past months are paying off,” Supnet said.

The situation on Jolo, the capital town of Sulu Island, has improved hugely where a night curfew has been lifted and there is a buzz as commerce flourishes and fear dispels.

"We're trying to erase the negative impression on our province as a no-man's land due to the Abu Sayyaf menace,” Governor Loong said. “Things were changing and the mindset of the people of Sulu has been transformed. The Tausugs are beginning to value their farms more than their guns." (HG)