(Eagle News)– The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday (September 13) noted that it has not yet received any instructions about the presence of United States Special Forces in Mindanao.
“We have yet to receive any specific directive as to how this pronouncement will be effected. We understand that the implementation of the said pronouncement is the subject of deliberations by concerned departments like DND and DFA to mention some,” AFP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr. said.
Padilla added that the partnership of the Philippines and US remains strong.
“Activities lined up for the year continue without interruption. Consultative planning activities for 2017 & beyond likewise remain on track,” he said.
Padilla seconded President Rodrigo Duterte was only concerned on the safety of US troops in the region.
“Pursuant to the same statement, he desires that our American counterparts should be eased from harm’s way. This refers to Western Mindanao, in particular areas like Zamboanga, Basilan & Sulu, where intense focused military operations combatting terrorism are ongoing,” he said.
According to Padilla, the number of US troops in the area has already declined due to disbandment of Joint Special Operations Task Force- Philippines (JSOTF-P) a few years ago.