Military beefs up security as 9/11 attacks remembered

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  – Soldiers in battle gear were strongly visible in the urban and commercial areas as the military continued to intensify security as the world remembered the twin tower terror attack exactly nine years ago.

Military officials said they are not discounting any repeat of the incident outside the US since the al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf have previously made threats of attacks against any US presence in areas that are supporting the Americans.

Security officials recalled that the Abu Sayyaf, led by slain leader Khadaffy Janjalani who were tagging then along with them dozens of hostages, including American missionary couple Martin and Gracia Burnham in the jungle of Basilan, were jubilant after learning the twin tower in New York were attacked leaving thousands killed and brought huge destruction.

Lt. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, commander of Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said intelligence units have been intensifying the movement to avert possible attack from the group.

 “So far there has been no monitored threat from the group yet,” Dolorfino said.

However, Dolorfino assured they are not letting their guards down in thwarting any terror attempt by the Abu Sayyaf, tagged in the several deadly attacks, including the Super Ferry bombing in February 2004, and high profiled kidnappings.

City police director Senior Superintendent Edwin de Ocampo said police forces have been placed under full alert since last week while checkpoints have been intensified in many entry and exit points.

“We are not letting our guards down even if the incident happened many years ago,” De Ocampo said.

The military and police forces are still running after 200 Abu Sayyaf militants from combined groups in Sulu and about 100 members based in Basilan.

Military official believe that the neutralization of several Abu Sayyaf rebels recently and the past years after the 9/11 terror attack have weakened the group.

Dolorfino said the relentless pursuit operation and dismantling of many training camps and holding areas of the Abu Sayyaf group have also prevented the terrorists from planning further attacks.