June 2, 2001, The Philippine Star, Military Action, Negotiations 'Go Hand in Hand' - AFP,

June 2, 2001, The Philippine Star, Military Action, Negotiations 'Go Hand in Hand' - AFP,

Manila, June 2, 2001 - (STAR) The military operation against the Abu Sayyaf and the government's negotiation with the terrorists "go hand in hand" and are "not separate from each other," according to the Armed Forces Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Edilberto Adan.

In a press conference, Adan clarified the all-out war which aims to neutralize the bandit group holding hostages from a Palawan island resort is not an operation that is independent of the ongoing talks for the unconditional release of their captives.

Adan said negotiations took place this afternoon as hundreds of members of the Abu Sayyaf were holed up in a hospital in Lamitan town in Basilan.

He said these talks are aimed at resolving the "standoff" between the military and the bandit group.