Navy closely monitoring sultan followers in Mindanao

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  - A  Naval officer said the Philippine Navy has been successful in preventing the sympathizers and followers of the Sulu sultanate from sneaking to Sabah to support those locked in a guerrilla battle with Malaysian forces.

Rear Admiral Armand Guzman, chief of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM), said eight  to nine navy patrol ships have been guarding  the Philippine waters in Tawi-Tawi to block armed men from slipping to Sabah.

“There were no reports that their number has swelled or increased in the area but there were attempts from followers of the Sulu sultanate to proceed there  (Sabah), but were advised and convinced not to go,”  Guzman said.

However, Guzman said the length of the the country's coastlines could mean that some supporters could have disguised themselves as fishermen to slip the patrol ships.

Marines and police forces also  continue to monitor movements of the followers of the Sulu sultanate  in Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Basilan and even in mainland Mindanao.

He said two naval transport ships have been placed on standby to transport evacuees or the followers of the sultanate back to the Philippines.

“In case a peaceful solution will be arrived at , at least we are ready to ferry those who will be going back to the country,” Guzman added.