A total of 149 members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) had been "neutralized" so far since all-out offensives against the bandit group were launched this year, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) on Wednesday.
The Armed Forces confirms that Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya, who was involved in several cases of kidnapping and bombing in Southern Philippines, was killed in a military operation in Sulu.
With the territorial disputes getting traction, the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Northern Luzon Command said now is the time to protect and defend the Benham Rise.
The military and police are assuring the public there are no security threats directed at the 30th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings, which kick off today, April 26
With intensified government efforts in Bohol resulting in only two more Abu Sayyaf at large, the Armed Forces says it has "adequately addressed" the terror threats in the area.
The military says it can deliver on a promise to wipe out the Abu Sayyaf Group in six months, but the Bohol incident is proof that the terror group is expanding its operations.
President Rodrigo Duterte's offer to send PH troops to the Middle East is a vote of confidence in the military, but it's still a plan on the long-term horizon.
