Economic development to battle terrorism, says GMA

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared Monday that economic development will be her administration's primary weapon against terrorism.

In a statement, Pres. Arroyo said, "Economic development, which we draw from the arsenal of democracy, remains our principal weapon against terrorism."

Pres. Arroyo issued this statement as the military stepped up its retaliatory offensive yesterday, overrunning an Abu Sayyaf training camp in the mountain village of Silangkum.

"Ongoing peacekeeping operations against rearguard actions of a despised and defeated group are meant to clear the path for these provinces’ journey to peace and progress which terror has delayed for so long," the President declared.