SENATOR GORDON COMMENDS AFPS
TRIUMPH AGAINST TERRORISM
"Where there is peace, development will surely follow."

The Senate yesterday co-authored and unanimously approved a resolution by Senator Richard J. Gordon commending the Armed Forces of the Philippines for its valiant effort to stamp out terrorism in the country. Their actions to eradicate our countrys long-standing disease of insurgency has been consistent, and their success, commendable, said Gordon.

Terrorism has taken our country hostage for so many years. Its ill effects include an ever-plunging economy due to the high-risk on security to investors. Without the much-needed investments, our people miss out on job opportunities, Gordon explained.

In his privilege speech delivered in the Senate yesterday afternoon, Senator Gordon said: There is hope yet. The AFPs efforts to eradicate the insurgency problem show the world that we can protect the nations territory and people. The courage and competence of the members of the First Recon Class 12, a platoon trained specifically to hunt Janjalani and his band, led by 2nd Lt. Romulo Dimayuga, under the command of 3rd Marine Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Juancho Sabban and trained by Recon Marine Head Major Robert Velasco should be recognized.

This successful pacification effort will surely resonate across Mindanao , greatly contributing to establishing peace in Mindanao , and where there is peace, development can truly follow. Real peace in Mindanao will facilitate the influx of investment, which will truly maximize the rich resources of this area, for the benefit of the people of Mindanao , Muslims and Christians alike, said Senator Gordon.

While commending the young people who tirelessly defend our country from terrorists and dangerous elements, Senator Gordon stressed the importance of supporting the Armed Forces. In the course of this war against terrorism, 23 soldiers and one police officer also sacrificed their lives. On the day of battle itself on September 4, 2006 , six marines gave up their lives to secure this victory. We need to provide them the best training and equipment if we are to inspire them to be truly committed to their cause.

Senator Gordon has been consistent in his efforts to support the AFP. We need a stronger Navy, a stronger Military, a stronger Air Force to safeguard our peace, Senator Gordon said.

As we endeavor to provide security for our nation, the capability of our military cannot be downplayed because our militarys ability to protect our resources impacts greatly on the nations economic and environmental concerns. Our country continues to face threats and to address these threats; the key challenge for the AFP today is to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the combined current assets of the Air Force, Navy and Army in the context of contemporary risks. Senator Gordon said.