Press Release
April 23, 2007

To expedite obliteration of Abu Sayyaf
PUSH AFP MODERNIZATION -- VILLAR

Senate President Manny Villar said the funds earmarked for the modernization of the Armed Forces should be released to improve its capability to obliterate the Abu Sayyaf and restore peace in Mindanao.

Villar said the latest terrorist act committed by the group to signal its resurgence should be countered in the strongest terms and dealt with the full force of the law.

Advancing the Armed Forces modernization program and ensuring that corresponding funds are timely released will provide the necessary boost to the ability of the government to counter terrorism such as that perpetrated by the resurgent Abu Sayyaf, the reelectionist senator, an independent, guest candidate of the Genuine opposition and president of the Nacionalista party, explained.

Villar said there is a need to upgrade the equipment used by the armed forces to strengthen the capability of its ground forces. Both communication technology and weaponry utilized by the soldiers in combat and intelligence operations must be modernized, he said.

More importantly, the Senate President stressed, We must ensure that the procurement and acquisition processes are transparently and professionally conducted.

Villar made the call while pushing his campaign today in Zamboanga City, visiting the Central Public Market, the Sta. Cruz Public Market, and the Minpro mall.

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