New US envoy cites RP gains vs terrorism

MANILA, Philippines - US Ambassador Harry Thomas cited the Philippines’ gains in fighting extremism in Mindanao, Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza said yesterday.

Mendoza said Thomas expressed his favorable assessment during his meeting with President Arroyo on Wednesday and his call on him yesterday both at the Palace.

“It was discussed during the meetings the successful operation against the terrorists in Mindanao and the assistance that the US government had provided our troops in the area in terms of training and intelligence,” Mendoza told a news briefing shortly after his meeting with Thomas with Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales.

“The issue of terrorism is a matter shared not only by the Philippines and the United States but by the entire world,” he said.

He said Thomas also thanked Mrs. Arroyo on the country’s support for US initiatives on nuclear security and combating possible nuclear terrorism.

The Philippines will lead the meeting on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty at the United Nations in New York next month.

Thomas’ comments came as government security forces continue to pursue al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf rebels believed to be responsible for the deadly bomb blasts in the capital city of Isabela in Basilan earlier this month.

The blasts, which killed 15 people, took place a few days after Thomas arrived in Manila from Washington on April 10 to assume his post.

Mendoza said Thomas committed his government’s continued support in the campaign against terror, particularly in southern Philippines.

US forces played a key role in the neutralization of Abu Sayyaf spokesman Aldam Tilao alias Abu Sabaya in 2002 during operations to rescue two American missionaries held hostage by the bandits.

Authorities also reported that members of the Jemaah Islamiyah, an Islamic extremist group operating in Southeast Asia, have been training local rebels in bomb making.

The Armed Forces estimates there are about 400 Abu Sayyaf members operating mainly in Basilan and Sulu.