Philippine Army Nixes Ramadam Truce

Unlike the Pakistani military, the Filipino army understands that granting a truce/ceasefire during Ramadam will only allow the terrorists to gather strength. Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines -- The government rejected calls halt offensives against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, even as Malacañang stressed continuing military offensives in Mindanao will be against only two rebel commanders accused of attacking civilian communities.

In Malacañang, gave assurances on Thursday that government forces "will take into account with great sensitivity" the month-long fasting observed by Muslims worldwide but would not allow this to be used by the targeted rebels as an excuse to escape the law.

In related news the Filipino military claimed that Kato, a MILF commander that slaughtered Christian villagers. However, MILF spokesman denied the claims saying that commander Kato and Bravo are both very much alive GMA News....

MANILA, Philippines - The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) belied Monday reports that two of its commanders wanted for attacks on Mindanao areas last month are ailing or dead, saying both are alive and well.

MILF chief peace negotiator Mohagher Iqbal said commanders Umbra Kato and Bravo are "buhay na buhay (very much alive)," but maintained they will not turn them over to government.

"Si Bravo ilang beses sinabi ng military patay, ganoon din sabi si Kato nasugatan. Pero buhay na buhay sila (How many times had the military claimed Bravo was killed, or Kato was wounded? I can tell you they are both very much alive)," Iqbal said in an interview on dwIZ radio.