Philippine adviser talks of challenges
By Peter Boylan
Advertiser Staff Writer
Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., the Philippine national security adviser, speaking at this week's international security conference here, talked about the challenges of fighting terrorism in a nation where its roots are firmly entrenched.
In the Philippines, Abu Sayyaf, a group of Muslim extremists based primarily in the southern islands, clash continually with government troops. The group is responsible for kidnapping a Kansas couple in the country on a church mission. One of the missionaries was killed during a rescue operation in 2002.
In September, Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo launched a major offensive against the rebels, which was supported by U.S. training and military equipment. The operation was in part a response to a February attack on a Manila ferry, during which more than 100 people were killed after a bomb hidden in a television set exploded on board.
Through it all, Ebdane said the key to combating terrorism is collaborating with other countries and sharing information.
"The Philippine government is fully committed to the global war on terror," said Ebdane, speaking at the second annual Asia-Pacific Homeland Security Summit in Waikiki yesterday. "That struggle calls for hard action and some softer measures."
Ebdane spoke at one of several sessions taking place over the next two days. Delegates from more than 40 countries and 24 U.S. states and territories are attending the summit, which is aimed at opening dialogue on several topics, especially terrorism, homeland security and trade in the Asia-Pacific region.
In addition to lectures, meetings and workshops, representatives from several security companies have set up booths showing off the latest technology. Companies selling everything from biohazard suits to infrared camera systems had set up a corridor of booths yesterday that resembled a video-game store.
The summit runs through tomorrow.
Reach Peter Boylan at 535-8110 or pboylan@honoluluadvertiser.com.
