INtrusions

Five of the seven slain Philippine Marines were reportedly beheaded by suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG). Twenty six soldiers were injured in the brutal assault of government forces in Sulu a few days ago. Sketchy reports say the Marines were ambushed by the ASG.


I thought this group was decimated already by the Philippine military? During the time of Arroyo, AFP officials said that they eradicated this group from Mindanao. 


I thought Isnilon Hapilon has already been killed and Dr. Abu, not leading the group anymore? That is the problem with counter-insurgency here in the Philippines, you'll never know the real score. 


Observe--if there are serious challenges to the national leadership and it involves the military, incidences like these happen, like its always, always planned. I mean, Its like the ASG suddenly comes to life wherever convenient. 


President Aquino showed his displeasure by issuing a statement. What about justice? 


Let's expressed the two sides of the same coin: soldiers are considered invaders of Moroland. They crossed the rubicon by punching on Moroland territory. Obviously, according to the Qu'ran, every Muslim has to defend his property from illegal intrusions. He is allowed to use his gun against intruders. That explains why there was a firefight.


There is a possibility that these soldiers failed to "coordinate" with local officials on their planned "visit" to ASG territory. Had it been that they did, this thing would not have happened.


Anyway, these soldiers are now in Manila, awaiting their burial in the Libingan ng mga Bayani.