AFP bucks Nur request to suspend offensive vs Sayyaf

MANILA, Philippines - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has thumbed down the request of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Nur Misuari to suspend military operations against the Abu Sayyaf while negotiating for the release of remaining hostages.

AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla stressed the importance of continuing the military offensive against the terrorist group, saying the suspension of operations would give members of the Abu Sayyaf an opportunity to regroup or escape from authorities.

Padilla said they may only allow the suspension of operations if there will be a turnover of hostages held by the bandit group.

Earlier this week, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana bared the request of Misuari to suspend operations while he negotiates for the release of the remaining hostages.

“I only told the commander to use their judgment because they are on the ground. They can only, maybe, stop operations in areas where the negotiations are taking place, not in all places,” Lorenzana told ANC.

During the anniversary of the Philippine Veterans’ Affairs Office yesterday, Lorenzana told reporters that they could not grant Misuari’s request for the suspension of operations. – With Perseus Echeminada