'No spies and traitors in our ranks'

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday slammed accusations that corrupt military officers have been getting a share in the ransom paid to Abu Sayyaf bandits in exchange for the release of their hostages.

"The accusation can undermine government efforts against these criminals and we will hold the one who released the statement accountable if they can’t substantiate their allegations," the AFP said in a statement read by Communications Secretary Herminio "Sonny" Coloma Jr over Radyo ng Bayan. 

“Medyo mabigat yata ‘yung paratang na nakapaloob diyan. Paano naman kung basta-basta na lang natin tatanggapin ‘yan.”

Coloma noted that an investigation must be done before making any conclusion regarding the issue of AFP’s connivance with the notorious terrorist group. He also finds the allegations unfair.

“Ang sagot agad natin imbestigasyon. Hindi naman yata makatuwiran dahil nakikita naman natin na isinasagawa ng pamahaalaan ang nararapat at nag-uukol tayo ng puspusang pagsisikap sa pagtugon sa problema," he said. 

It was Mayor Hussin Amin of Jolo, Sulu who disclosed that some "scalawags" in the military are in cahoots with the Abu Sayyaf, whose members are subjects of intense government manhunt over the abduction and beheading of hostages. 

Amin said a certain military colonel in Sulu benefitted from the multi-million peso ransom paid by former kidnap victim Dr. Alberio Canda who was released by the Abu Sayyaf on December 30, 2004.

Although they do not doubt the "dedication and commitment" of their troops, the AFP said they have an "established system to ensure no spies and traitors are in our ranks."

"There also exist strong measures to deal with those who have found to have violated their oath," the statement read. 

The AFP also assured that commanders on the ground are in full control of the troops and are focused on their primary mission of arresting Abu Sayyaf bandits and saving the hostages.

The military then urged local government officials to help in coming up with a "permanent solution" to the Abu Sayyaf problem. 

"Local officials should also come up with socio-economic plans that can help the citizens veer away from supporting these crime groups when they share the money received from kidnapping. After all, peace and order is their primary responsibility in their respective provinces," the AFP said. — APG, GMA News