April 18, 2000, PHNO, News Blackout Poised Over Abu Sayyaf Antics,

April 18, 2000, PHNO, News Blackout Poised Over Abu Sayyaf Antics,

Camp Aguinaldo, QC, April 18, 2000 - The Armed Forces of the Philippines is threatening to impose a news blackout on the hostage crisis in Basilan to stop the Abu Sayyaf from using the mass media to further the group's terrorist aims.

Col. Rafael Romero, Armed Forces spokesman, lashed out at media for giving the terrorist group, which is now known as Al Harakatul Islamia, extensive coverage and exposure.

"Every terrorist's main weapon is to strike fear in the hearts of every person and they use the media," Romero said in an interview over radio station dZbb. "The best thing here is to cut off the media so that they no longer have exposure. Nobody will listen to them."

In Cotabato City, National Security Adviser Alexander Aguirre urged the media to help the government convince the Abu Sayyaf to release the 29 remaining hostages and to stop terrorizing civilians.

"You in media, both in print and broadcast can help us work out the release of the hapless by calling on this group not to resort to violence in furthering their cause and to let the people know what the Abu Sayyaf is doing."

Aguirre said media can be a means for the government to reach the Abu Sayyaf and let its members know about the serious consequences of their activities.

"They can fight the government but not harm innocent civilians." he said.