Tuesday, August 28, 2007 Inclement weather hampers offensive in Basilan By Bong Garcia
THE military offensive against the al Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf group was hampered by inclement weather Monday, a day after fresh clashes ensued in Basilan, where punitive actions continue.
Military reports disclosed that the latest reported firing of guns was heard around 9:00 p.m. Sunday in Barangay Selangkun in the newly created town of Ungkaya Pukan.
Two soldiers were wounded when fresh clashes erupted Monday shortly after 5:00 p.m. when government troops who are continuously combing Basilan hinterlands caught up with the bandits in Barangay Selangkun, Ungkaya Pukan and Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo.
The report said the soldiers have remained in the area despite the inclement weather experienced Monday in the region.
Basilan Governor Jum Akbar said her personnel, with support from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), are continuously attending to the needs of the evacuees in the province.
Akbar said they need shelter materials to be given to the evacuees most of whom are staying with their respective relatives in safe areas.
The lady governor also worried they might run out of relief goods should there be prolonged offensive against the Abu Sayyaf in the province, and without the support from the national government.
Last Saturday and Sunday, the International Committee of the Red Cross office in this city sent relief goods to Basilan province.
