AFP to end insurgency woes, focus on defense of territory

From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 9): AFP to end insurgency woes, focus on defense of territory

By all indications it may a difficult target, but the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is seriously aiming to end all insurgency problems in the country and shift focus to territorial defense “as soon as possible.”

“Our plan is to be able to declare the entire country peaceful and ready for development,” said Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang, AFP chief of staff.

But Catapang admitted it is such a gargantuan task, noting that the country is currently faced with so many security challenges that include communist rebels, breakaway factions of Moro rebels, the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), and even foreign terrorist organizations.

However, he said that based on the recent meeting with top military commanders, all the government action plans to address insurgency problems are on the right track.

For instance, he said the recent number of communist rebels have been reduced to 3,200 fighters from its peak of 25,000 during the 1980s.

“We are doing alright. We are being able to address these challenges,” said Catapang.

On the threat posed by the Moro rebels in Mindanao, Catapang said they are confident that the approval of the Bangsamoro Basic Law and full implementation of the peace agreement will help in the normalization of security situation in the South.

http://www.mb.com.ph/afp-to-end-insurgency-woes-focus-on-defense-of-territory/