AFP assures protection for US soldiers in Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines—The Armed Forces of the Philippines is not taking any chances.

Despite the Moro Islamic Liberation’s Front statement that it will not join al-Quaeda’s call to attack US targets over an anti-Islam film that sparked protests in the Islamic world, the military said on Monday it will not let its guard down from protecting US troops in Mindanao against such acts.

“While the MILF statement is a welcome development, it is not a signal for us to let down our guards. Our commanders and units in Western Mindanao are abreast of what is happening to US (facilities) abroad. We will not let anything untoward happen to their soldiers and personnel,” Western Mindanao Command spokesman Colonel Randolph Cabangbang said in a statement.

He said the American troops in Mindanao do not move around without their police and military counterparts, and additional security if needed.

“Force Protection is integral to US Forces activities in Mindanao. Even before the attack of their embassy, they have been implementing strict security procedures to protect their soldiers, equipment and temporary facilities,” he also said.