US embassy warns towards Sayyaf, BIFF threats

From The Times (Dec 27): US embassy warns towards Sayyaf, BIFF threats

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – American citizens have been alerted against traveling to areas in Mindanao as well as in Palawan, southern Negros Island and the resort island of Boracay, citing threats by the Abu Sayyaf and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

“The United States embassy would like to alert US citizens residing in, or traveling to, the Philippines to recent statements by Philippine security officials regarding an increase in the Terrorist Threat Level to Level III (High) in seven cities and nine provinces across the country due to persistent reports of kidnapping for ransom plots and potential bombings by the Abu Sayyaf and BIFF members,” the embassy said yesterday.

The separatist BIFF rebels warned of more attacks following the three-day military operations against local jihadist factions.

“The embassy wishes to remind all US citizens to review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”

The US embassy also pointed out that Philippine security officials indicated that cities under the increased terrorism alert are Zamboanga, Marawi, Isabela, Kidapawan, Dipolog, Dapitan and Cotabato.

Philippine security officials were also quoted to have further indicated that provinces under increased terrorism alert are Sultan Kudarat North Cotabato, Maguindanao, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Sulu.

The areas in Palawan, southern Negros island and Boracay island in Aklan have also been placed in the same situation by the US embassy.

The embassy also said Philippine officials in several of the areas have announced increased security measures.

Malacañang said government forces will hunt down the BIFF rebels.

Quoting military spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the BIFF’s “lightning raids and harassment are still expected following losses incurred” in military operations conducted during the last few weeks.

“They intend to show that they are not yet a spent force following recent debacles,” Padilla said.

Padilla, however, said the Armed Forces of the Philippines had determined these activities were localized and focused ongoing military operations against the BIFF.

Government chief negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer added the BIFF’s sporadic attacks across the three provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato “indicate an attempt to gain momentum for their bid to destabilize the situation in these areas and garner attention for themselves and their flagging cause.”

Ferrer asked the leaders of the BIFF to reconsider their violent ways and take heed of the people’s desire for peace and normalcy in their lives.

http://www.westfieldtimes.com/breaking/us-embassy-warns-towards-sayyaf-biff-threats/37742/