Abu Sayaff Group suffers major defeat, says Malacanang

The Abu Sayaff Group (ASG) suffered a major defeat, Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary said on Sunday.

"Malaking dagok sa ASG ang isinasagawang pinaigting na law enforcement operations ng mga tropa ng Sandatahang Lakas sa Sulu," said Coloma

According to intelligence reports around 30 bandits were seriously wounded in the firefight that began 1:50pm Friday (Nov. 14). Around 300 ASG bandits, led by a certain Radullon Sahiron, were encountered by a force of more than 70 troopers.

This operation led to the killing of ASG sub-leader Hairullah Asbang and eight other rebels, according to Joint Task Force Commander Colonel Allan Arrojado.

However, there were still no official reports regarding the French hostages.

"Walang opisyal na ulat sa umano’y bihag na galing sa bansang France. Ang batid at tinututukan ng AFP ay ang mga bihag mula sa Japan, Malaysia, at Europa," Coloma added.

A relentless military operation is currently on going to pursue the ASG after the group released a German couple last October 17. (PCOO News Release)