The Philippine armed forces will arm and train civilian militias on southern Basilan island to help the government fight the Abu Sayyaf rebels, defence chiefs said today.
The Abu Sayyafare still holding 29 hostages, snatched last month, including three US citizens.
The mayors of Basilan's seven municipalities will also be provided with satellite telephones to report guerrilla movements, they said.
"People have the right and responsibility to defend themselves," Interior Secretary Mr Jose Lina said.
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AFP